International Playlist: Human Rights Edition

BY RAMYA CHANDRASEKARAN

Did you know? November is significant for recognizing the protection of Human Rights around the world. Below are some international films that highlight this sensitive issue.

Gandhi

Released 1982; Directed by Richard Attenborough
Starring Sir Ben Kingsley, Rohini Hatangini, Candice Bergen, Martin Sheen, Roshan Seth, Amrish Puri

No conversation on Human Rights is complete without references to Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi is a period biographical film which covers Gandhi’s life from the defining moment in 1893, as he is thrown off a South African train for being in a Whites-only compartment and concludes with his assassination and funeral in 1948. The film won 8 Oscars at the Academy Awards that year. Sir Ben Kingsley portrays Gandhi as a spiritual force while capturing all the qualities he was loved for – wisdom, generosity of spirit and a sense of humor.

Available on Amazon Prime.

Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

Released 2013; Directed by Justin Chadwick
Starring Idris Elba, Naomi Harris

A British-South African biographical film, it chronicles Mandela’s early age, coming of age, education and 27 years in prison before becoming President of South Africa to rebuild the once-segregated nation. Idris Elba received critical praise for his performance across the board.

Available on Amazon Prime.

Kannathil Muthamittal

Translation: A Peck on the Cheek

Released 2002; Directed by Mani Ratnam
Starring Madhavan, Simran, Nandita Das, Keerthana

On her ninth birthday, Amudha, after learning she is adopted, resolves to find her birth mother. Her parents insist on accompanying her. Together, they leave the comfort of their home in India to venture into the jungles of SriLanka, where they witness the violence and brutality of civil war. Is Amudha successful in her quest? Does she find answers to her questions? Mani Ratnam presents a subtle and nuanced story of human relationships in midst of Sri Lankan Civil War. Keerthana makes a memorable debut as Amudha. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2002.

Available on YouTube.

Raat Akeli Hain

Translation: The Night is Lonely

Released 2020; Directed by Honey Trehan
Starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Radhika Apte

When a newly married landlord is murdered, a small town cop is summoned to investigate the crime. Raat Akeli Hain is an unpredictable whodunit which focuses on a dysfunctional family, their secrets and their interpersonal relationships. Nawazuddin Siddiqui gives a memorable performance as the honest and brave cop who will leave no stone unturned to solve the mystery.

Available on Netflix.