The White Helmets

The White Helmets unveils the dangerous and life-saving work of the Syrian Civil Defence, a volunteer rescue group operating in opposition-controlled areas of Syria, including Aleppo.

Nicknamed the White Helmets, the volunteers provide medical evacuations, essential service delivery, and search-and-rescue operations in areas devastated by bombing. Chronicling their work, director Orlando von Einsiedel follows the group as they rush into war-torn Syria in the immediate aftermath of destruction.

In addition to documenting their frontline efforts, the documentary details the rigorous training required to become one of the White Helmets. Focusing on three men from the same unit, the film explores the intensity of their preparation. During their training in Turkey, the prospective White Helmets must confront the reality of becoming first responders in a region subjected to daily airstrikes and bombings.