Intense · Gripping · Investigative

An edge-of-your-seat feature-length documentary, The Somali Project chronicles the extraordinary real-life mission of the Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) — a private militia assembled to battle Somali pirates who have terrorized some of the world’s busiest shipping routes since the mid-2000s.

Directed by Adam Ciralsky, an award-winning former CIA attorney turned journalist, the film blends investigative journalism with the pacing of a political thriller. It provides an unprecedented, up-close look at the dangerous operations of the PMPF, from high-risk raids to strategic planning, all while navigating the political, cultural, and economic challenges of international peacekeeping.

With cinematic storytelling and raw authenticity, the documentary captures the human cost and moral complexity of combating piracy — where each mission carries the weight of saving lives, restoring order, and protecting global trade. Premiering at the Tribeca Film Festival 2013, The Somali Project stands as a gripping exploration of courage, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of modern maritime security.