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KENYATTA UNIVERSITY
SCHOOL OF CREATIVE & PERFORMING ARTS, FILM & MEDIA STUDIES
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNICATION, FILM & THEATRE STUDIES
FILM AS AN AGENT OF CHANGE
CFT 404: FILM FOR DEVELOPMENT
FACILITATOR: DR. SUSAN GITIMU
GROUP MEMBERS
ADM NO.
Diana Wangui
F108s/15875/2017
Swah Collins
F108/3608/2017
Cornelius Oburu
F108/3021/2017
Edwin Outi
F108/3019/2017
Timothy Gitonga
F108/2982/2017
Dickson Njoroge
F108/3005/2017
Jeff Simintei
F108/3010/2017
Nancy Wanja
F108S/15943/2017
Mutuku Nzilani
F108/2985/2017
Grace Waweru
F108/3011/2017
SIGNATURE
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Introduction
Film mirrors the society. This means that film reflects on the opportunities and challenges
that members of society experience. In this regard, filmmakers have the opportunity to influence
the ideologies that members of society regard as norms. Furthermore, film is an opportunity to
voice out social, economic and political issues and advocate for changes that people do not
realize that they need. There exists fiction and non-fiction films that have been used as agents of
change and evoke reactions from governments and the public. Moreover, film creates an
opportunity for people to realize their developmental goals; therefore, the future of film is bright
because of the purpose it serves.
1.How fiction films have been used as agents of change.
Introduction
The film industry is mostly known to be an “entertainment business." Filmmakers and the people
who indulge in this movies do it as a form of escapism from the concerns of the real world. Most
of the times, this is the case, but every once in a while — whether for better or worse, planned or
not — a single movie, if made well, could cause some sort of measurable shift in society.
How fiction films have brought about change with examples.
Fiction film, even though entertainment driven, can sometimes create awareness of an issue. For
instance, a story has the power to call attention to an important issue that many were previously
unaware of, turning it into a national talking point. Maybe seeing a celebrity on the big screen
starts a new trend, or sometimes, there is demonization of a person or thing which ends up
perpetuating negative stereotypes and causing more harm than good on either a large or small
scale, short or long-term effects.
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The power behind this world changing intended films is that they might make you realize just
how much beliefs and information we consume have been shaped by the media and this
realization makes you more aware of where your ideas come from before you act on them or
pass them to others. Here are five films that changed the world in their on special way.
1. The Birth of a Nation
When people hear change, immediately their thoughts drift to positive change. DW Griffith’s
1915 The Birth of A Nation, is not influential for the right reasons. The film is set during the
American Civil War, and it follows two families; the Stonemans from the North and the
Camerons from the South. The Cameron family is attacked by black soldiers, and later rescued
by Ku Klu Klan members. The eldest son willingly joins the KKK, and he gradually becomes
leader of the group.
The film made a negative impact by revealing and exalting the work of the KKK, inciting many
people to join this nearly extinct extremist group. Unfortunately, through this infamous film, the
KKK looked ‘trendy’, causing membership to increase to 4 million by the 1920s. In the wrong
hands, cinema can be a dangerous medium.
2. Bambi (original 1942)
Anyone who has watched Bambi(animation) shed a tear, became fond or even bought a curtain
with Bambi all over it (this is totally not what I did). On its 1942 release, viewers were saddened
by how the lovable baby deer was orphaned after a hunter murdered his mother. This animation
not only softened the audience's hearts, but also Recreational hunters were emotional about the
cartoon deer, so much that after watching, they soon abandoned their hobby, decreasing hunter
numbers by 50% according to the buzzarticle feed . it was titled the ‘Bambi effect’, and Bambi
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soon became a national animal rights symbol, changing the course of the hunting industry and
those who participate in it.
3. Hidden figures (2016)
Hidden figures is a true yet inspiring story that follows the reality of three black women
working for NASA starring by Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monae, who were
the brains behind sending the first US astronaut, Alan Bartlett Shepard Jr, to space which was
named the greatest operation in history. This amazing achievement inspired the world to dream
big and shows how the three women had to fight to get the recognition they deserved.
4. Hotel Rwanda (2004)
Directed by Terry George, Hotel Rwanda tells the story of a man, Paul Rusesabagina(played
by…), manager at the Belgian-owned Mille Collines. Mr. Paul was, a middle-class Hutu married
to a Tutsi woman, and in the 100 day period, he used his influence - and bribes - on military
officials convincing them to secure a safe escape for an estimated 1,200 people who sought
shelter at the Mille Collines Hotel in Kigali, Rwanda's capital.
Mr Rusesabagina protected the refugees in the hotel by whatever means possible from the rebel
troops as the violence in the city escalated to a 100 days of massacre, of anyone who did not
support the warring.Thanks to Paul’s heroism, 1200 Tutsis were saved.
5. Star Wars franchise
Star Wars is 44 years today since its first debut, May 25, 1977. Through Word of Mouth, word
continue spreading at Mann's Chinese Theatre, then at cinemas across the country then
eventually, it became clear that Star Wars was going to be a huge hit. “A New Hope” was the
first starwars series and by the time the original trilogy concluded six years later with Return of
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the Jedi, the series was a full-fledged phenomenon. The famous series was constantly released,
different plots with updated sets by the release -never stops giving. The original film had four
theatrical re-releases, and then the "Special Edition" hit theaters again in 1997. Countless TV
airings and home-video releases followed. Star wars changed the world by:
Altering the feel of Sci-Fi. George Lucas, the playwright and a star in the third episode as Baron
Papanoida, realized that a fantasy world would be much more believable if it was as beat-up as
the one we actually occupy. He made starwars look like a world we believe in changing the
unrealistic aspects of some fiction films.
Becoming a design icon through countless, famous visual elements in the films and TV series.
The show amounts to a 121-minute museum of 20th century design. Arguably, no other single
film has such an ambitious yet wholly realized aesthetic not excluding the perfectly rendered
title. Finally, it was a musical landmark with the help of John Williams who is famous for his
orchestral compositions. The original film had four theatrical re-releases, and then the "Special
Edition" hit theaters again in 1997.
Conclusion
Fiction films are a reminder of how important and powerful when it comes to creating change
either in the entertainment industry, a country or worldwide. As film makers we should assess
our society and find our untold, forgotten stories and use our tools and skills to bring them to life
which will help people realize just how rich our culture in Kenya and Africa, as a whole is.
Countless western films have left an imprint of an unrealistic world and that is why we should
tell our stories in our own way and we will, for sure, make an impact not only locally, but
worldwide.
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2. How Documentaries and Non Fiction Films Have Been Used as Agents of Change with
Examples
The 1922 movie "Nanook of the North" follows a charismatic real character in a distant
land. However, Robert Flaherty fudged a few facts and staged a few scenes but the film is
generally considered as the world's first documentary. Documentaries which are also known as
non-fiction films have become a major agent of political, social and economic change to the
society since they ideally do not take any sides of a story. They aim at depicting what is
happening or what happened to our societies. In as much as documentaries aim at depicting real
life, there is a thin line between entertainment and journalism since the aesthetics of the films
have to be tweaked a bit to make the film more interesting since no one would tolerate watching
a boring movie just for the sake of information which now may raise questions of the credibility
of information provided by the documentaries
According to Ellis and McLane (2005:3), documentaries not only offer audiences more
than just an aesthetic experience but also an effect on attitudes possibly leading to action.
Audiences do not respond so much to the artist or the filmmaker as they do to the subject matter.
Documentary films producer Dan Cogan also stated that, "You were supposed to watch
them, they would inform you, but you didn't want to necessarily want to watch them as
entertainment in and of themselves."
Documentaries and non-fiction films have brought about different degrees of change in
places where they have been released. They would mostly relate to the societies in which they
have been released. Examples include;
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Surviving R. Kelly a documentary film which shows the life of one of the RnB best
musicians, Robert Sylvester Kelly also known as R. Kelly and exposes his sexual interactions
with ladies who were underage at the time including the late RnB singer Aaliyah Dana Haughton
alias Aaliyah who even went to the extent of even marrying her at age 15 and also exposing
some of the sex tapes. R. Kelly being a very rich and influential musician was in a state of much
power and his could not be easily destroyed by mere underage girls crying for justice but at least
the film gave voices the victims of R Kelly and at the time of the film's release there was an
ongoing molestation case of the RnB Artist R Kelly.
Another documentary closely similar to Surviving R Kelly is Lifetime's documentary
Surviving Jeffrey Epstein which exposes a billionaire Jeffrey Epstein who with the help of his
wife, Ghislaine Maxwell, would hire mostly high school teens who were not of legal age of
consent as his masseuse and end up having sex with them. He would then 'buy' their silence by
showing them a billionaire’s life they are not used to so as to make them feel special. Billionaires
being viewed as very busy people who have only time for businesses no one would end up
believing the ladies stories. The question would even be, "where would a normal American girl
get to interact with a man of high status like Jeffrey Epstein?". Jeffrey even went on to try and
buy the system to bury his case but could not go through and the victim's sound were finally
heard with the help of the documentary and Epstein was convicted for his sex offenses and
recently died in prison but unfortunately Maxwell was not convicted of any crimes.
Politicians have in most societies been seen as the untouchables. They can get away with
anything due to their money and power. This narrative changed with the release of Panama
Papers, a political documentary which showed how most of the wealthy politicians around the
world adopted drug dealer's methods of hiding their wealth in offshore accounts or tax havens in
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which their wealth was fully theirs without taxation, I mean who wouldn't want to fully enjoy
their wealth without having to pay the government a certain amount of tax. With the help of
Mossack Fonseca, a Panamanian law firm, the money would be bounced off in many accounts
making it hard to trace it back to its original owner. With 2.6 terabytes(TB) of data i.e. 11.5
million leaked documents, being considered one of the greatest leaks in history, the documentary
involved a lot of influential political figures which brought about the voluntary resignation of
politicians like the prime minister of Iceland and UK, a 10 million fine and 10 years
imprisonment of Pakistan's Prime Minister, impeachment of Brazil's president.
Locally, with the release of NTV's Red Alert social documentary which showed how
supermarkets preserved their meat products with the use of some dangerous chemicals and on the
following day, no one was willing to buy the meat products from supermarkets again.
Despite documentaries bringing about an almost immediate positive change after its release,
NTV's political documentary COVID 19 Millionaires, exposed how KEMSA gave out dishonest
tenders, and managed to scam the government, during a pandemic when the money was seen to
have been of much help to Kenyans who could not sustain themselves. Corruption cases were
opened against the perpetrators but Kenyans saw that it would have been of no help since the
narrative of arresting and not convicting corruption criminals is very much repetitive.
Generally, documentaries are to inform the people of what is going on in their society to help
push for a positive change.
3. Films as an Agent of Political Change
Political science is said to be one of the sciences that have greatly underused the film
industry. This is despite the fact that film particularly in theoretical studies is valuable as it
enables the practical uses and meanings of socio political concepts and actions. The perspective
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of a filmmaker can contribute in many ways because of its esthetic force and distinctive qualities
and also because of its dual dimension as an art and socio political phenomenon.
In order to conduct a study that can contribute to contemporary thought with the help of
film, it is useful to analyze the works of various filmmakers such as Eric Rohmer who is also
considered to be “non-political”
The first section of this research will majorly focus on the reasons for film usefulness
especially in research on political theory and the complexity on relationship between this set of
artistic devices and political questions.
In the second part of the same, we will examine a number of films to identify how truly
films are agents of political change today.
The socio political reach of the film.
Film in a special way has established itself as being socio political in relation to the fact
that it is the war chest of the television.
Films brings forward a multifaceted representation of the problems considered to be political.
Some films even go further to contribute in establishing a representation of those in power and
recording the gaze of a period. Even though film’s political effects cannot be measured, they are
absolutely unobservable.
An example is the condition and possibility for the ethnic diversity in the political staff in
the United States, were brought together in part by making emancipation a reality on film
particularly through rebellion, heroism, and trivialization.
Film can thus become the tool that can dismantle spectacular construction from within
and it shows what makes representation system work in human societies.
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The strength of film.
An elites’ society of specialized writers having studied cinema such as Stanley Cavell and
philosophers such as Gilles, social scientists, semiologists and critics have underlined the
strengths of this process, its capacity to project the world as seen by Cavell.
The strength of the cinema is in its power to reproduce, which means it has a special
relationship with the event and society. This fact is in contrast with painting which copies and
theatre which mimics. The nature of the film is to update the past better than any art form that
has ever existed.
In a more precise manner, film renders visible what we did not or perhaps could not see
before it was created. It effectively helps us discover the material world with its psychophysical
relationships. The filming process makes it possible to experience from a point of view.
A field on which political sciences has become silent.
Despite the theoretical interest and the development of communication sciences and
cultural studies, it should be noted that the political theory and film remains relatively far away
apart. Just as there is “silence of political science” in politics, so too there is there is silence on
entire aspects of artistic creation like film. Even though as seen above, film is far from being
“apolitical”
It is a rare political scientist who investigates this subject, which is so important in the
social world, an example is to understand changes in contemporary individuals which is a topic
at the heart of much political thought.
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This could only be done by looking at several great filmmakers such as Pedro
Almodovar, who deciphers the dialectic equilibrium between the “law of desire” and passion,
and rise of a more multifaceted, individualized and motivated person who is liberated and
corseted at the same time by the “new” law.
JFK destroyed your faith in the American political system.
You may or may not agree with the political messages presented in the other films on this
list. But at least they motivated their audiences to care about an issue, to take a stance. Precisely
the opposite happened, however, in a study of the “psychological consequences” of seeing the
extremely controversial 1991 conspiracy drama JFK, directed by Oliver Stone. In a
1995 study of viewers before and after seeing the film, Stanford University psychologist Lisa
Butler and her colleagues found that seeing JFK “doubled the level of anger” of viewers. What’s
more, it also seems to have affected their political intentions. Seeing the film “was associated
with a significant decrease in viewers’ reported intentions to vote or make political
contributions.” The researchers attributed this response to a “general helplessness effect”
engendered by seeing the film: The vast conspiracy (supposedly encompassing the CIA, the
military-industrial complex, the mob, and some of the most powerful figures in American
government) proposed by the filmmakers made people feel powerless.
The Day After Tomorrow made you care more about global warming.
We know it wasn’t scientifically accurate or plausible. But did the 2004 disaster film, in which
global warming somehow manages to bring on a new Ice Age (you are right to scratch your
head), make audiences more worried about climate change? According to a study by current
Yale researcher Anthony Leiserowitz, the answer is yes. Leiserowitz conducted a national survey
three weeks after the film’s release and found that 83 percent of film viewers said they were
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“somewhat” or “very concerned” about global warming, compared with 72 percent of nonwatchers. Moviegoers were also more likely to believe in the likelihood that a variety of climaterelated impacts, ranging from more extreme weather to the flooding of major cities, would occur
in the next 50 years. The study only sampled 529 people, but film grossed more than $500
million globally. So one can infer it had a pretty significant effect on public opinion around the
world.
Malcolm X inspired you to be more concerned about racial discrimination and race relations.
In a 1997 study in the Journal of Politics, Darren Davis of Michigan State University and
Christian Davenport of the University of Colorado–Boulder examined the effect of the 1992 film
Malcom X (directed by Spike Lee and starring Denzel Washington) on African-Americans in
Houston. The study found the film, and the way it was reinforced in other media, to be “quite
powerful in altering political attitudes” among the study subjects. In particular, those who saw
the film and a CBS documentary about Malcolm X were more aware of issues of discrimination
and also more concerned about the importance of race relations as a political issue.
In conclusion, political and non-political films make multiple contributions to political
studies. Without contradicting social science, analyzing films from a socio-political angle adds a
dimension that ultimately presents a more complete study. It also takes people in film and
characters that are both unreal and representative of reality into account, which is never quite the
same the moment it has been translated cinematically. A study of the three films by Rohmer
mentioned in this paper shows precisely how valuable it is to add a cinematographic eye to the
analysis. Enriching the political scientist’s gaze works particularly at the level of capturing
private perceptions, which is best achieved through a cinematographic gaze, whether this gaze
belongs to a politician or ordinary individual users of public policies and guinea pigs for new
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policies, such as new towns. This is also the case in understanding growing phenomena or those
that have not yet occurred. These phenomena are more clearly visible when one attempts to
understand them from an esthetic point of view rather than a purely sociological or political one,
e.g. with the limitations of decentralization, which are much more noticeable when they are seen
or felt intensely in these films, when everything is conspiring both socially and intellectually to
repress them
4. Film as an Agent of Social Change with Examples of Such Changes
Film being one of the mediums of communication, has been used widely to communicate
either directly or indirectly to both general and specific audiences. It has been found to be one of
the most effective ways of communicating ideas, thoughts, and even promoting and preserving
culture.
It is a means of transmitting information in a way that transcends most barriers.
Regardless of your race, gender, language or social views, concrete video of an event can have
an enormous impact on how it is interpreted. Most writers are usually inspired by what they see
in the environment where they live which are then made into films that are able to influence
thinking and actions of individuals and groups of people.
Racism
In the film Marshall, Thurgood Mrashall (Chadwick Boseman), fights for the rights of a
black American who is sentenced to prison for having raped a white lady, while in essence the
two has a consent before having sex, but because he was black, he was framed and charged for
raping the white woman. Marshall fights for his rights and eventually frees him.
In the series For Life, Aron Wallace (Nicholas Pinnock) , a black American is framed for
selling drugs and sentenced to life imprisonment. He studies law while in prison and begins to
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fight for his for his freedom, the story is real inspired by the life of Isaac Wright Jr. These and
many other films today are in themselves fighting racism so that the white man who was
formally seen to be superior are gradually losing grip on the black race.
Sex orientation.
With debates and questions over sex orientation and fights from religious perspective and
beliefs, for example, same gender marriages have been in question and some shunning at it.
Movies are such as Arrow, For Life, and the Kenyan film Rafiki already portray and allow same
sex marriages and relationships and they are already being accepted by the society as the norm.
The US law for example, as a result of these activities, have allowed same sex relationships in
their constitutions and laws.
Feminism (women’s inequality)
In the past women were generally passive and always considered to able to do nothing.
With the rise of the feminist theories in the various waves, women fought to be heard, not only
seen. They began making movies showing he capabilities of women. Films such as wonder
woman is a film that is made to portray the power and ability of a woman. Women have hence
risen from their silence to become great people who are celebrated today. As such, for example
in Kenya, we have seen women fighting for political seats and to have a representation in
parliament, so that it is stated that by law there should be a third representation of women out of
the total seats in parliament.
Rights and Freedoms of the Poor
The rich as always been on top of the poor and most of the times, they have always been
undermined and toppled down. Being poor there is already a crime and no one defends you, even
in the court of law you are already seen as guilty. With the rise of movies such as Robbin Hood
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where he stole from the rich and gave to the power and giving he poor a chance to fight against
corrupt leaders and officials. Movies like 6 Underground and Money Heist speak no less of the
same story. The people as a result are inspired to strike against the government or a leadership
that becomes corrupt and brutal. The Nurses and Teachers Strikes are but examples of
inspirations from these movies.
5.The Future of Film as an Agent of Change
Cinema is undoubtedly one of the most powerful means of communication, especially
when a change is to be brought. It touches the innermost core of a man occupying space in our
real lives. Cinema has the power to showcase situations in the most effective form which makes
the public get sentimentally involved. We laugh with films and we tear with films, such is the
occupation of films in our mindsets. Our conviction to films is evident every Friday. We do not
ever want to miss out a film with our favourite actors featuring in it. Cinema presents the image
of the society. It metaphorically defines the social elements in our society that needs to be
changed for betterment. Cinema has always been a great cause for national integration. It holds
the power to change the society and the social trends.
As any experienced activist will know, social change can happen through a variety of
mechanisms. The three focal points have been changing perceptions, changing public policy and
building social change infrastructure. Cinema is splendid for the expansion of education, national
integrity, family planning, prohibition and eradication of illiteracy. With good morals, social and
educative themes, it gives audience food for thought and help shape public opinion for progress.
Cinema exercises its powers of great influence on the minds of the people and helps in the
transformations of our society. On issues such as dowry system and labour exploitation, our film
industry has produced very purposeful films and gives voice to women and workers. An example
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of the film is ‘Midlife Crisis’ directed by Zippy Okoth, which features an all-female cast. Films
increase knowledge and broaden our outlook. Films such as ‘Rafiki’ by Wanuri Kahiu have
thrown light on social pictures of lesbianism, gay rights, unemployment and family trauma.
These films mature our eyes and create in us an urge for improvement. Film on the whole is a
means of recreation and is a universal teacher. The industry has produced various noble and
inspiring films that have brought significant changes in our society. In all senses, cinema is a
friend, philosopher and guide of the masses.
Our Film industry has witnessed tremendous growth over the past years and there is huge
potential that exists when creative storytellers partner with strategic campaigners. The
digitalization of film distribution led to the creation of video-on-demand, which is a system that
allows its users to select and watch a film of their choice without a prescribed television
program. Movies or TV programs can be viewed on any device connected to the internet. This
means that the viewer can freely choose the place where he or she will watch chosen content.
The traditional form of watching films at home can also now be moved to any place where the
user can connect to the internet. The traditional model of communication, where the user only
listens and watches a specific content is gradually transforming. Today, the user selects and
chooses what he or she is interested in. The new media provides a sufficient degree of freedom
of choice. One part of the audience continues to use the classic linear television; however, the
second part of the audience prefers service upon request. The expected future development of
devices and users connected to the Internet and the average time spent watching videos online by
users of the Internet shows that video-on-demand has a bright future ahead
As social media isolates people into a pre-selected menu of options, theaters and film
studios will feel the need to bring into public view the issues affecting us all, providing a forum
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for sometimes uncomfortable, (but always essential) conversations. In the older days’, cinema
was the core of cultural outgoings, now the phrase "let's go to the movies" is replaced by laying
on the couch. Today’s viewer just pays for Netflix or HBO and he or she can simply watch
anything anywhere. Before the age of convergence, people with cameras were creatively filming
their own ideas, but now they just film their friends and strangers in secrecy. However, for us to
succeed, we must consciously focus on stories outside our comfort zones, support storytellers
from all walks of life and stake out our turf as the community’s crier. The one thing constant for
all creativity is change. New forms of art and film and mediums will emerge and it is exciting
and inspiring. It is a time for filmmakers to recreate themselves with the new forms of
convergence and digitalization.
6.Government’s Stance on Socially and Politically Controversial Films
Governments around the world control the content that the audience consumes.
Filmmakers remain obliged to seek approval from the set government agencies to screen or
distribute the films. Filmmakers who create films that advocate for social and political change
resultantly practice activist filmmaking. In this regard, governments pay more attention to films
that lean towards social and political issues, which spark controversies. Some Government
agencies opt to ban the screening and distribution of such films in the country of jurisdiction.
Films that portray a political or social world that is opposite to the norms receive
backlash and criticism from the authorities. Such films are seen as a tool for rebellion against the
government or those in power. For example, for the political comedy movie “The Death of
Stalin” the Russian government revoked its distribution certificate by the Russian state
censorship. The Russian Government claims that the film makes a mockery of the country’s
political past and addresses the power-hungry politicians in Russia (Edele, 2018). Nevertheless,
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the film aimed to entertain through the political drama around the world. On the other hand,
some films tell stories that explore different perspectives about the social values of certain
communities, which results in controversies and social debates. For example, the Bollywood film
Padmaavat prompted protests from Hindus in India, which led to a clash with the police. The
group argues that the film’s portrayal of romance between a Hindu queen and a Muslim king
disregards the culture of the people (Americans United, 2018). The commotion caused a 2-month
delay in the film’s release
The Kenya Film Classification Board is a State Corporation established under the Screen
and Stage Plays Act Cap 22 of the Laws of Kenya. The role of the institution is to regulate the
creation, broadcasting, possession, distribution, and exhibition of content and broadcast to
promote the culture, National values, and aspirations as well as protecting children against
exposure to harmful content. The board is also empowered to impose age restrictions to ensure
that content is consumed by members of the appropriate age. In the line of duty, the board has
banned films that spark political and social controversies with the claim of protecting the young
generation. For instance, the film Rafiki tells a story about a romantic connection between two
girls. However, the State Corporation banned the film with the argument that the film goes
against the norms and culture and the campaigns for homosexuality which is regarded as a vice
and a criminal act in the country.
Such instances prove that films with stories that go beyond the social, cultural, and
political norms and expectations receive criticism and negative feedback. The phenomenon
needs not discourage filmmakers from creating stories that entertain and mirror society as it is.
Filmmakers and art lovers need to use such examples as motivation to advocate for social change
and make films that tell stories about the society we live in.
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7. Audience response to controversial films that advocate for social change.
Cinema is repeatedly mindlessly dismissed as “escapism (the tendency to seek relief from
unpleasant realities). Even though films are predominantly created for entertainment purposes,
they spread ideas and impose their own values which bring about social change. Haifaa Al
Mansour, Saudi Arabia’s first female director, once said that art can touch people and make them
open up. These ideas and values, however, evoke different responses among social, political and
religious institutions. Some ideas may cause prolonged public disagreements and debates and
this is termed as polarization of opinions. This is what makes a piece of art controversial. It is
through these debates that set morals and values are challenged. Films have influenced culture,
politics and law globally, in Africa and locally (Kenya). The following films have acted as a
catalyst for changed either through showing good or evil. We shall see how audiences reacted to
them as well.
a) A Girl in the River
Directed by Obaid-Chinoy, this film tells the tale of a woman who is nearly killed by her
father for indulging in a forbidden love. Without a shred of remorse, the father fails to
understand the gravity of his actions. On the contrary, he feels justified in killing his own
daughter in order to protect his family from dishonor. Honor killings are an international
disgrace claiming over 5000 women lives every year. The film influenced the change of the law
on honor killings in most Arabic countries.
b) Blackfish
This indie documentary followed the tragic tale of a mistreated Orca from Seaworld,
whose cramped container and inhumane treatment led him to kill three of his trainers. The
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revelation of how these poor marine creatures were treated behind closed doors led to a global
outcry. Viewers shared their responses through tweets, Facebook video shares and petitions
inflamed in the internet exposing the insidious price of this entertaining spectacle. Seaworld was
boycotted by millions of people, their reputation was in tatters, ticket sales dramatically dropped
and share prices halved. This resulted to Seaworld cancelling their killer whale breeding program
and stopped all popular live shows featuring Shamu the Orca.
c) Rafiki
Directed by Wanuri kahiu, this is a tale of two girls, the daughters of political opponents,
who fall in love and find their identity and dreams compromised by a conservative society. The
Kenya Film Classification Board argued that the film contravenes national laws and culture.
Homosexuality is illegal in Kenya and gay sex is punishable by 14 years in prison. Wanuri said
that the film addressed an issue that was already happening in society. The film commission used
a hash tag, #KFCBbansLesbianFilm, that immediately sparked a barrage of supportive tweets
from Kenyans who decried homosexuality. However, campaigners for lesbian, bisexual, gay and
transgender rights have become increasingly vocal and have campaigned for the repealing of
Kenya’s law on gay sex on the grounds that it deprives sexual minorities of basic rights.
8. Recommendations for Present and Future Filmmakers On the Issue of Films for Social
Change.
Storytelling has been a tool of entertaining and educating, informing, preserving history
and cultures, transforming behavior and practices, and notably for provoking general social
change. Stakeholders in the film industry argue an untapped opportunity for change-makers and
storytellers, who possess different skills and live in differing fields. Through filmmaking, they
can work together to bring forth social transformation in the world (Mesce, 2018). Therefore,
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through collaboration with activists, non-governmental organizations, communities, and other
individuals seeking social change, present and future filmmakers should strive to adopt
filmmaking approaches that facilitate social change.
Firstly, filmmakers should endeavor to work with members of society. This will enhance
understanding of issues the people experience. Moreover, the films can, in turn, be used for
community campaigns. Consequently, the films' screening within the community presents an
opportunity for community members to discuss the issues portrayed in the films. By involving
the community in the creation process, the film's influence on the people is more impactful
(Sowa, 2017).
Secondly, filmmakers should disregard the notion that specific issues are limited to only a
particular demographic. Notably, a film is a mirror and a bridge that allows viewers a perspective
and enables them to look at similar problems within their own culture. In film making, there is an
assumption that the issues tackled will only influence a specific audience, for example, cultural
practices, traditions, and social norms. However, the problem may act as a catalyst that prompts
a conversation about a different issue existing in that context.
Finally, stakeholders have identified documentary films as an in-depth and informative
resource, a perfect platform for creating dialogue. Due to their real-life character-driven nature,
they put a human face to the issues that would otherwise be unrelatable and distant. The viewers
are influenced by hearing and seeing these people's real experiences instigating compassion and
empathy (ONE, 2016).
Importantly, filmmakers should utilize the untapped potential of documentaries to prompt
a change in the community. Unbeknownst to most, as opposed to other forms of films, the
documentary is likely to initiate change due to their real experiences and human approach.
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Therefore, a field that present and future filmmakers should venture into if they seek to create
impactful films that bring social change.
9.Role of Film in Promoting the Sustainable Development Goals.
Sustainability development id development that meets the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs.
SDG GOALS.
1. No poverty
2. Zero hunger
3. Good health and wellbeing
4. Quality education
5. Gender equality
6. Clan water and sanitization
7. Affordable and clean energy
8. Decent work and economic growth
9. Industry innovation and infrastructure
10. Reduced inequalities
11. Sustainable cities and communities
12. Responsible consumption and reproduction
13. Climate action
14. Life below water
15. Life on land
16. Peace, justice and strong institutions
17. Partnership for goals
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EXAMPLES.
1. No poverty. Some of the documentary filmmakers’ document the impact of climate
change on the environment in their study. They screen documentaries for the local communities
and gave them a voice, but also spend part of their budget locally. By supporting local people,
they contributed in the fight against poverty.
2. No hunger project from a Belgian health organization illustrates the importance of film
as a medium. They look for young mothers willing to breast feed their babies for film and TV
productions. Their aim is to promote breast-feeding
3. Good health and wellbeing is an important issue. Respecting health and safety
regulations and safeguarding the cast and crew’s wellbeing is also another form of sustainability.
Taking the time to talk this through with the cast and crew on the importance of having healthy
food on set, as a filmmaker, helps in promoting the SDG agenda.
4. Quality education. NGO foundations such as; AGRA, Ford foundation, SIDA, just to
mention anew, not only supports audiovisual projects financially, they also play a key role in
talent development. they guide new professionals at the start of their career. Actions include
workshops about storytelling, internships at animation studios, Wild Card competition for talent
(including financial production support
5. Gender Equality. Gender plays an important role, both on and off screen. ‘Saikati’ is
an award winning film made by Dr. Anne Mungai tells the story of Laura. It is the story of a
young African woman in pursuit of education and independence. ‘Saikati’ literally put the gender
debate on the agenda.
6. Clean water and sanitation. Drinking water plays an important role on a film set. The
entire cast and crew need a reliable and safe water supply. In many cases bottled water or water
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fountains are the traditional logistic choice, but tap water is a budget friendly, safe and reliable
solution. An average film production uses a substantial amount of drinking water. The origin of
this water (tap water vs. bottled water) and how it is consumed (single use cups vs. reusable cups
and canteens) has an important impact on the sustainability of a production. Know that an
average production easily produces 10 000 consumptions; this would represent about 9m³ of
plastic waste.
7. Renewable energy. The artistic choices highly influence the power needs of a film set.
Can one use natural light or is artificial light needed? Additional positive effects would be noise
reduction on the set and its surrounding residential location and not having to refuel a generator.
8. Good jobs and economic growth. New innovative business models can help crews to
work more sustainably and also create new jobs. The modules can be rented and reused again
and again. They are a perfect example on how innovative circular economy entrepreneurship
works
9. Innovation and infrastructure. Sustainability can be about personal engagement and
daily behavior. Convincing crew members to carpool or prevent waste are simple low-tech
options. But in some cases new and innovative technology can be the solution
10. Reduced inequalities. Inequalities are an important topic, both on and behind the
screen. Equality can stem from the following factors; How people are treated on your set, are the
young and unexperienced given the opportunity to gain professional knowledge, is safety and
proper working hours considered, are men and women paid equally? How are people portrayed
in your film?
11. Sustainable cities and communities. Film festivals in Kenya, are an inspiring example
on how cinema brings people together. They screen non-commercially distributed films in their
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original version, they also host numerous local film events and make available their
infrastructure for beginner filmmakers. In the bar they opt for local drinks and food.
12. Responsible consumption and production. 28% of the average production impact is
related to waste and materials. By making clever choices a cast and crew can decrease this
amount tremendously. Buying in bulk, working paperless, using 2nd hand goods, renting instead
of buying and so on. Going green initiative works best for such projects.
13. Climate action. Adopting sustainable decisions such as; carpooling, local power
supply, limiting the use of trucks, promoting vegetarian food, going paperless and using water
canteens can help the environment tremendously.
14. Life below water. Flotsam is a game developed by Pajama Llama Games (with VAF
financial support). The aim of this game is to collect waste at sea and recuperate this waste to
create a new society. In a way this game is a Trojan horse: in a subtle way the players are
confronted with the plastic problem at sea and the importance of sustainable material
management. This makes Flotsam much more than just entertainment. Moreover, external
organizations working on waste management and sustainability can form important partners for
Flotsam. Flotsam reaches thousands of players that might never be aware of circular economy
and material management; external partners could support Flotsam with both finances as content.
15. Life on land. We have more in common than we think with the people responsible for
the management of our natural and heritage sites. For the film sector these sites form the best
filming locations. By being aware of our impact we can help to protect these valuable.
16. Peace and justice. Film can be seen as the flight simulator for mankind: it confronts
us with a wide array of situations and emotions and push us to self-reflect. It is an important tool
in storytelling.
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17. Partnerships for the goals. Pulse is a Flemish transition network for youth, culture and
media. It groups thousands of professionals around the theme of sustainability. Pulse plays an
important role in connecting these people and their organizations.
In conclusion, film plays an important role in addressing sustainable development goals.
10. Current trends in filmmaking and the impact they have on the society especially the
youth.
a) Optimistic futures
Since we are living in a very insane and unpredictable world where things keep changing in a
matter of seconds, mostly to the worst, people have to have things or imaginations that give them
hope for the coming future. For example, in 2020 we faced a very unexpected change in the lives
of everyone around the world by the invasion of covid-19. It is a very dangerous disease that is
communicable and can end someone’s live in a matter of 14days. People were so shaken by this
since people were dying by the minute and thought this was the end of the world. Filmmakers
used this opportunity to create films that gave people hope for the future. A future where we will
have conquered this disease and everything is back to normal. Filmmakers also created films
where the future is on another planet. This gives people hope for survival, it makes them have
better visions for the future, for a better world; a world that conquers. Filmmakers use optimistic
futures based on the real happenings in the world and how the issues been faced can be solved.
Optimistic futures have greatly impacted the society today since it gives them peace for the
future. The youth are being inspired to make movies that are going to give hope to people,
because right now no one what’s to watch something that will scare them more than they are
already scared. The other impact it has on the society is bringing their fantasies into reality
through the screen.
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b) Women are making female-centric films
In the past year women empowerment is something that has really grown. Women are now
taking charge over their own destinies and not waiting for men to dictate what goes on in the
films or even their lives and this can be clearly be seen in the films created recently. For
example, good girls and joy are films all about women taking charge. We are seen more women
directing films, producing films, editing films, being the camera person and being heads of so
many productions in the past years. It is more likely that we can expect more stories for and by
women.
Women being heroes in films and leading in films has really impacted the society thereby we see
the world totally different. It has helped young women to know they can be bosses in any aspect
of their lives. That they can conquer the world when they put their minds and hearts to it. Young
men are being taught that women too can be in charge and it’s not a matter of masculinity
struggle. These films are opening people’s eyes to know to give everyone a fair charge in every
opportunity.
c) New super creatives.
The new generations between 13-22 years are people who have grown up been surrounded by
tech and they will for sure unlock unseen potentials within tech. They will know how to make
hyper connectivity; which is the use of many systems and devices so that you are always
connected to social networks and other sources of information, constant sharing and fluid
creative expression an asset. With the increasing levels of access to knowledge and newfound
abilities to create powerful networks, it will bring changes in the way we are creatives create
films. The films are being inspired by the new found technologies.
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New creativity is very impactful to filmmaking since it broadens they creativity of people in the
film industry and just people in general. With the increase in levels of knowledge and ideas, we
can expect more films to be invented that will continuously blow peoples mind.
d) Data creatives
Since data is produced on a daily basis, people in the film industry and people in general are
discovering new ways to use it and how to capitalize it. Before filmmakers shoot movies or
series, they usually put out a trailer. They wait and analyze it. They wait and they keep collecting
records of how people are perceiving the film. They later collect data and decide on how to
proceed forward with the people’s response. If the data is in their favor the continue with the
shoot. This can also be applied in the middle of shooting and they collect data using data analysis
which shows graphs of the flow of the film and through this they are able to know if people hate
or love the film or if they are reaching the goals they set before production. Sometimes low
reviews or a lot of hate towards the film make people not watch thus causing show cancelation.
e) Streaming has become popular
In the past year due to the pandemic and not being allowed outside, steaming of films at home
has become more popular. In the years before, when film was starting to be popular, the people
used to gather in a specific place and stream the movies. This continued until people built
theaters and they would gather and watch films been streamed. In the earlier years, before 2020,
streaming lost its value as people embraced movies watching through their televisions. The virus
brought people back to their roots of streaming films using a white cloth or board and a projector
since they did not have the luxury of going outside. The perfect audience in the time we are in is
streaming of films since people have seen how good it can be.
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Streaming has impacted the society in a way of giving the youth endless opportunities to earn
money and expand their boundaries of creativity. It gives new opportunities to create content that
will attract the right audience.
f) Sequels and remakes continue to bring in money
Sequels are a published, broadcast, or recorded work that continues the story or develops the
theme of an earlier one. Remake is a film or piece of music that has been filmed or recorded
again. Sequels and remakes have become popular over the years. Films like Lion King, Aladdin,
Mulan, Cinderella, the beauty and the beast and so many others have been remade. Sequels and
remakes are natural money-makers. This is because when a series or movie ends the audience
always want to know what happened afterwards and sequels entice them. There’s no denying
that franchises are in high demand and their popularity is expected to continue.
The impact sequels and remakes in society is that they are a way of making money.
g) Scientific expeditions
Every day is an opportunity to discover something new this about the universe we have. People
are discovering things from the past, new features, new breed of animals and who better to keep
showing us the world we live in than documentary filmmakers? Scientific expeditions are a new
way of uncovering all that the world has to offer and through their films, other film ideas can be
created.
Scientific expeditions have impacted the society in that they have increased their knowledge of
the world around and they keep giving the filmmakers new ideas and new imaginations for their
films. This creates a wide variety of films to watch and choose from.
h) Into the multiverse.
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Since we are considering that the world might becoming to an end, people are looking for
alternative worlds. There are so many movies and series created showing the end of the universe
and how humans will relocate and camp in other dimensions or planet and stay there when the
world crashes and ends. Filmmakers make people’s fascinations come alive when they are
watching the films. Films like Star Trek, Angel and Stranger Things show another live in another
dimension.
This has impacted people in making their fantasies come true through the screen.
Conclusion.
There are so many trends that have come up in the resent years that are changing our view on
films and the world. There are still new things out there been discovered about the world and the
world will never stop evolving and new trends will continue to be created.
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