10 December,2010 06:26 AM IST | | FYI Team
On this day in 1948, the United Nations proclaimed and adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. For those of us who have never had to fight for our basic human rights, here are three films -- from an 'outspoken' Iranian girl to a nation fighting against apartheid -- that provide glimpses into the lives of those who have had to
Cry Freedom directed by Richard Attenborough
Why? Because the movie deals with apartheid and is 'political' cinema at its best. Because racism is an issue that we continue to grapple with. Because it's from the same guy who directed Gandhi.
What's it about? The movie portrays the story of a friendship between a white liberal South African editor and an idealistic young black leader, who later dies at the hands of the South African police.
Blood Diamond directed by Edward Zwick
Why? Because blood diamonds are sold to finance terrorism, fuel civil wars and human rights abuses. Because an estimated 3.7 million people have died in Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Liberia and Sierra Leone in conflicts fuelled by diamonds.
What's it about? Set during the Sierra Leone Civil War in 1999, the film shows a mercenary and a Mende fisherman on a quest to obtain a rare pink diamond that has the power to reunite the fisherman with his family and provide a shot at redemption for the mercenary.
Persepolis directed by Vincent Paronnaud and Marjane Satrapi
Why? Because it is about a girl, who lives in a country with a long list of what not to do. Because it provides a cheeky, humorous edge to feminism, and defies fundamentalism of which Islamic fundamentalism is a part.
What's it about? An animated feature incarnation of the work by French-Iranian autobiographical graphic novelist Marjane Satrapi, the movie depicts her childhood in Iran during and after the Islamic revolution. It showcases the life of a girl who fights back political and social repression in her own defiant way.
The story begins in Tehran in 1978 when Marjane (8) is shown as a livewire of a little girl and the product of an educated middle-class. Sex, alcohol, smoking pot, dancing, singing, depression and moments of glorious happiness -- the animated movie takes us through it all.
History made
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a milestone document in the history of human rights. Drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds from all over the world, the Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on December 10, 1948 as a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations.
It defines -- for the first time -- fundamental human rights to be universally protected. India took active part in the drafting of the UDHR, making important contributions in the drafting of the Declaration, and especially highlighting the need for gender equality.
Towards one world
The ongoing Flashpoint Human Rights Festival at Alliance Fran aise de Bombay is hosting with movie screenings throughout the day.
At 3.45 pm, there will be a panel discussion on the rise of religious intolerances and possible legal recourse that may be sought. The festival ends today.
Log on to:u00a0u00a0www.flashpointfilmfestival.blogspot.com for the schedule
At: Alliance Fran aise Auditorium, 40, Theosophy Hall, opposite American Center, Marine Lines.
Call 22035993
