Every day, teenagers who have fled their war-torn countries try to cross Europe’s borders in search of protection and a better life. They travel through a shadow world we never see: a world of minefields, bears, fast-flowing rivers, smugglers and border guards. ‘The game’ is the bitterly ironic term for crossing borders that has become commonplace among these young refugees. Risking their lives, the teenagers undertake a treacherous journey that often takes months or even years. Along the way, they grow up fast.

Shot over a period of three years, partly by the main characters themselves on their phones, Shadow Game is a mosaic story in which the experiences of young refugees on the road are forged together into one universal tale: a modern Odyssey. Will they overcome the numerous obstacles they face? And will they find a new home?

This special screening on International Human Rights Day 2021 is presented in partnership with the Human Rights and Equality Working Group of the Law Society of Northern Ireland. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion highlighting the reality of the situation for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children and young people who arrive in Northern Ireland, and some ways in which attendees could support them. 

The panel members are Julie Bell, Health and Social Care Board, Regional Social Work Lead For Separated and Unaccompanied Asylum Seeking Children and James Devine, Children’s Service Manager, Barnardo’s Independent Guardian Service. The discussion will be chaired by Maria McCloskey, Chair of the Law Society’s Human Rights and Equality Group.