Rwandan Genocide Explored in Powerful Films on Streaming Platforms

KIGALI, Rwanda — The horrors of the Rwandan genocide, which led to the death of approximately 800,000 people over a period of 100 days in 1994, are vividly depicted in several films now available on streaming platforms, inviting viewers to confront the dark legacy of this tragic chapter in history.

The 1994 conflict ignited on April 7, after the assassination of President Juvénal Habyarimana. Deep-seated ethnic tensions between the majority Hutu and minority Tutsi escalated into a brutal campaign of mass murder, which concluded when the Rwanda Patriotic Front seized power on July 19.

Among the films highlighting the genocide is ‘Hotel Rwanda,’ which tells the true story of Paul Rusesabagina, a Hutu hotel manager who sheltered Tutsi refugees during the massacre. Rusesabagina’s actions saved countless lives and are depicted poignantly in the film, showcasing both the horror of the violence and the resilience of the human spirit.

Another notable title is ‘Shooting Dogs,’ which depicts the events through the eyes of two foreigners—a priest and a teacher—who confront the situation alongside local communities. The narrative is grounded in personal accounts that underscore the chaos and devastation experienced during those tragic days.

Now streaming on Max, ‘Sometimes in April’ takes a different approach, focusing on the aftermath of the genocide through the eyes of a Hutu soldier, Augustin Muganza, played by Idris Elba. The film delves into the moral complexities faced by individuals caught in the turmoil, highlighting the questions of survival, complicity, and the search for justice in a society that is still healing from deep wounds.

Augustin’s struggle is amplified by his familial ties; his brother Honoré, portrayed as a radio host, propagates hate speech that fuels the conflict. The film juxtaposes personal relationships with the larger narrative of societal decay and violence. The poignant scenes depict Augustin’s helplessness as violence unfolds around him, capturing the harrowing reality endured by countless Rwandans.

Raoul Peck’s direction in ‘Sometimes in April’ aims to dissect the genocide’s impact profoundly, emphasizing the need for reflection on international responses—or lack thereof—as foreign nations evacuated their citizens while leaving locals vulnerable in crisis. In one particularly emotional scene, a diplomat’s dismissive comments highlight the indifference of the global community.

The film encompasses not only the chaotic violence of 1994 but also the haunting aftermath, culminating in the trials of perpetrators a decade later. Augustin, now a teacher, attempts to convey his past experiences to his students, aiming to teach the lessons that history demands.

During this narrative, the international community’s inaction is sharply criticized, with powerful dialogues portraying the grim realities faced by Rwandans during the genocide. Peck’s cinematic style meticulously captures both the horrors and the impacts of the event, making it a crucial watch for viewers seeking to understand the complexity of human rights failures.

The effects of the Rwandan genocide continue to resonate, with ongoing societal struggles visible in the region. Today’s climate of rising nationalism and identity politics further underscores the importance of learning from the past, as depicted in these films. ‘Sometimes in April’ and its companions invite audiences to not only witness history but to engage with it meaningfully.