Film and Reconciliation: A Case Study from the Republic of South Africa

Abstract

Systematic violence and reconciliation between and within groups are complex and continuous processes. Unfortunately, a number of movie and series adaptations regarding these issues create a distorted image of the problems societies face in their attempts to reconcile ('black and white' image of the perpetrators and victims, the almost magical catharsis of audience after listening to a lonely hero 's monologue, etc.). With these problems in mind, this paper provides a concise overview of the social and psychological factors influencing reconciliation after violence and conflict, focusing on Apartheid in the Republic of South Africa (RSA). At the same time, the movie Country of My Skull will be used as an accurate illustration of scientific contributions of psychologists in creating a better future. In other words, this paper is a combination of theoretical understandings and scenes which capture various psychological factors that either facilitate or hinder mutual understanding, forgiveness and reconciliation.