Long Night's Journey Into Day
For over forty years, South Africa was governed by the most notorious form of racial domination since Nazi Germany. When it finally collapsed, those who had enforced apartheid's rule wanted amnesty for their crimes. Their victims wanted justice. As a compromise, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was formed. As it investigated the crimes of apartheid, the Commission brought together victims and perpetrators to relive South Africa's brutal history. By revealing the past instead of burying it, the TRC hoped to pave the way to a peaceful future.
Long Night's Journey Into Day follows several TRC cases over a two-year period. The stories in the film underscore the universal themes of conflict, forgiveness, and renewal.
As it emerges from its tragedy, South Africa is showing the rest of the world that even the most bitter of conflicts can be addressed through honesty and communication. Long Night's Journey Into Day provides the definitive record of one of the most ambitious and innovative attempts at social reconciliation without precedent in human history.
"This is an impressive, heart-rending film and it deserves wide circulation."
Archbishop Desmond Tutu
"This film raises fully as many questions as it answers. This makes it a thoughtful, provocative and deeply moving film."
Alice Walker
"The emotion of our hard experience comes through as unmediated drama. The film is a document of what we went through and itself becomes part of the experience."
Albie Sachs, Justice of the Constitutional Court of South Africa
"A beautiful and often disturbing reflection on the nature of truth and forgiveness."
New York Times
Long Night's Journey Into Day
Ways to Watch
Educational Streaming
Colleges, Universities, Government Agencies, Hospitals and Corporations.
Community Screening
Short-term use for small groups, organizations, or high school classes (under 100 participants, where no admission is charged).
Home Viewing
48-hour, personal rental for in-home use only, restrictions apply