Challenging the Narrative: Documentary Film As Participatory Practice in Conflict Situations

Drawing on his experiences directing films in Ireland, Haiti, Brazil and South Africa, McLaughlin reflects on the potential of documentary film to provide a platform for those who have experienced political violence to challenge dominant narratives that marginalises them, and that offers potential for personal and public healing. Using participatory methodologies, each case study analyses conditions of production, political context, participatory potential, and impact of the films on both survivors and the general public. Challenges are addressed and lessons suggested for similar projects in the areas of documentary film, transitional justice, participatory ethnography and political activism.

Cahal McLaughlin is Professor of Film Studies at Queen’s University Belfast and Director of the Prisons Memory Archive (www.prisonsmemoryarchive.com)