"It is better to die for an idea that will live, than to live for an idea that will die"
- Stephen Bantu Biko (1946 - 1977)
The Richard Attenborough movie, Cry Freedom, demonstrated the willingness of two people to fight for the freedom of an oppressed race. This film showcased the passing of the torch from Steve Biko (Denzel Washington) to Donald Woods (Kevin Kline) to ignite revolution and pioneer the way to racial equality during the South African apartheid.
Washington's role as Biko deservingly earned him an Academy Award nomination. He managed to encapsulate the scholar, patriot and rebel that Biko was known to be. Nonetheless, I feel that the movie attempts to show the fight of a white man to champion the freedom of native Africans, rather than the efforts of Steve Biko. This is because the death of Biko, while aptly portrayed, takes place within the first half of the movie. On the other hand, Woods' sacrifices and journey to publish his book was allowed much more screen time.
Attenborough displayed proficiency in the use dramatic music and camera work to capture the emotion in numerous important situations. Notable among these was when Steve Biko died and when the Woods family crossed the border. What I find most impressive is Attenborough's ability to create a film both captivating to the audience, and respectful to its historic origins. However, the plan of escape for the Woods family could have been better explained.
Personally, I find myself able to relate to the subject matter at hand given that the issue of racial harmony is sensitive, yet frequently brought up, in Malaysia. Upon realising the opportunity, any race (or division of people) may rise and proclaim themselves superior to the rest. This potent misconception becomes what psychologists label as ethnocentrism, and is usually associated with dictatorial rule, oppression, and violence. Nonetheless, Biko, Woods and all other anti-apartheid heroes stand as an example of how understanding can be achieved without the use of arms; and forgiveness, without retribution.
Washington's role as Biko deservingly earned him an Academy Award nomination. He managed to encapsulate the scholar, patriot and rebel that Biko was known to be. Nonetheless, I feel that the movie attempts to show the fight of a white man to champion the freedom of native Africans, rather than the efforts of Steve Biko. This is because the death of Biko, while aptly portrayed, takes place within the first half of the movie. On the other hand, Woods' sacrifices and journey to publish his book was allowed much more screen time.
Attenborough displayed proficiency in the use dramatic music and camera work to capture the emotion in numerous important situations. Notable among these was when Steve Biko died and when the Woods family crossed the border. What I find most impressive is Attenborough's ability to create a film both captivating to the audience, and respectful to its historic origins. However, the plan of escape for the Woods family could have been better explained.
Personally, I find myself able to relate to the subject matter at hand given that the issue of racial harmony is sensitive, yet frequently brought up, in Malaysia. Upon realising the opportunity, any race (or division of people) may rise and proclaim themselves superior to the rest. This potent misconception becomes what psychologists label as ethnocentrism, and is usually associated with dictatorial rule, oppression, and violence. Nonetheless, Biko, Woods and all other anti-apartheid heroes stand as an example of how understanding can be achieved without the use of arms; and forgiveness, without retribution.
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