After the Black Book 2005
Distributed by Cinema Guild, 115 West 30th Street, Suite 800, New York, NY 10001; 212-685-6242
Produced by Grace Barnes
Directed by Grace Barnes
VHS, color, 55 min.
Adult
Human Rights, Journalism, Latin American Studies, Law, Media Studies, Political Science, South American Studies
Date Entered: 12/21/2005
Reviewed by Margaret M. Reed, Riley-Hickingbotham Library, Ouachita Baptist University, Arkadelphia, ARAfter the Black Book proves that even today one person can start a grassroots effort to change a corrupt system of government.
The film traces the arduous journey of Chilean journalist Alejandra Matus to overturn a law prohibiting criticism of public officials. It begins with the publication and subsequent banning of her book El Libro Negro de la Justicia Chilena, or The Black Book of Chilean Justice, a scathing critique of the Chilean judiciary. Facing legal prosecution, she fled to Miami and was granted political asylum. While in exile, she and her cause gained international attention, which paved the way for her return to Chile. Even though the Chilean legal system still has “insult” laws that limit freedom of expression, the government repealed the statute that Matus challenged.
After the Black Book is most effective in its depiction of Matus as an unassuming figure whose primary concern is to educate and empower the common people. This is most evident in personal interviews with her. She is poised, unpretentious, and articulate – a stark contrast to the officials who attempted to silence her. Colleagues, family, and ordinary citizens also vouch for her pure motives.
The documentary, however, has a few notable weaknesses. At times, it seems to be more of a travelogue than a campaign for journalistic freedom. Also, the presentation seems a bit disjointed in places, because it devotes too much time to issues that are tangentially linked to Matus’ cause. Even so, the film is an excellent resource for government and journalism courses.
Recommended for college and university libraries.