Coexist

Filmmaker Adam Mazo travels to Rwanda to interview citizens, activists, academics, counselors, journalists, and government officials in this examination of the East African nation's efforts at reconciliation between Hutus and Tutsis some 17 years after genocide tore the country apart. Mazo also includes footage from meetings between these former enemies, and he talks with Hutus who feel regret but also claim that the Hutu-led government incited them to kill Tutsis and destroy their property. Although approximately 60,000 perpetrators would end up serving time, most have since returned to their native villages. While some of the survivors have found it impossible to put the terror behind them, others have sought to forgive those who murdered their spouses, children, and other family members. Reconciliation workshops and counseling centers have helped to facilitate this process, and while the program appears to be working, journalist Sam Nshimiyimana also cautions, “It does not mean that everyone has that conviction in their heart.” Coexist doesn't put a simple happy face on the situation, emphasizing instead the difficulties on both sides. DVD extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette, short film on the history of the country, and a downloadable PDF viewer's guide. Presenting a solid discussion starter on a range of interwoven topics—including violence, hatred, revenge, forgiveness, and personal and societal responsibility—this is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (K. Fennessy)