Welcome to Port-au-Prince: The Dark Humour of a Diplomatic Kidnapping

Production Details

Title: Welcome To Port-au-prince

Format: Feature Film

Production Begins: Fall 2026

Filming Location: Colombia

Producer: Diana Bustamante, Joslyn Barnes, Frank Lehmann, Laurence Lascary

Writer/Director: Raoul Peck

Cast: Ruth Negga

CD: Kathleen Chopin, John Ort

Synopsis

Part black comedy, part thriller, The Curious Kidnapping of the Honorable Ambassador Knox tells the true story of the kidnapping of the United States ambassador by three Haitian rebels, Anna1 and two comrades, in the streets of Port-au-Prince on January 24, 1973. This was the first time that an American diplomat had been held for political reasons and then released (thanks to the intrepid French ambassador) in exchange for a ransom. It was also the first time, thanks to Mexico, that the demands of the kidnapping rebels had been met without bloodshed. The hostage-takers, like the political prisoners they freed, were all granted political asylum.

Production Companies

Velvet Film

17 rue des Jeûneurs

Paris

75002

rpeck@velvet-film.com

Burning +

57 9260028

gerencia@burning.com.co

Louverture Films

1133 Broadway, Suite 1124

New York

NY 10010

212-229-3960
info@louverturefilms.com

About Welcome To Port-au-prince

The film The Curious Kidnapping of the Honorable Ambassador Knox explores a significant event in U.S. diplomatic history. It recounts the true story of the ambassador’s kidnapping in 1973 by three Haitian rebels, showcasing the motivations behind the act and its political implications. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Port-au-Prince, the narrative combines elements of black comedy and thriller. It highlights the unique circumstances under which the ransom was negotiated, reflecting on the broader themes of politics and diplomacy during a tumultuous period in Haiti.