In the Tall Grass 2006
Distributed by Choices, Inc., 3740 Overland Ave., Ste. F, Los Angeles CA 90034; (310) 839-1500
Produced by J. Coll Metcalfe and Eugene Cornelius
Directed by J. Coll Metcalfe
DVD, color, 57 min.
College - Adult
Holocaust and Genocide Studies, African Studies, Criminal Justice, Human Rights
Date Entered: 05/18/2007
ALA Notable: ALA.gif
Reviewed by Martha Kelehan, Binghamton University
In the Tall Grass looks at the civilian justice system called Gacaca used by Rwandans to gain some measure of reconciliation and justice in the years since the 1994 genocide. In Rwanda perpetrators and victims of the genocide continue to live side-by-side, hampering the ability of many to heal. The documentary focuses on the Gacaca trial initiated by Joanita Mukarusnaga, whose husband and four children were killed during the genocide. Despite fearing for her own safety for agreeing to speak out at the trial, Joanita names her neighbor Butera as one of the leaders in the murder of her family. The judges that preside over the publicly-held trial are drawn from all members of Rwandan society - male and female, Tutsi and Hutu. After hearing conflicting stories, the judges struggle to make sense of what happened that April so many years ago and to bring to justice those who murdered Joanita’s family.
Given the subject matter, it should come as no surprise that the film contains numerous disturbing images of the genocide. The production value is extremely high. The DVD contains several extra features, including a lesson-plan, a photo gallery, a written statement by the director, and additional information on the history of Gacaca in Rwanda. This film is recommended for scholars interested in Rwanda, as well as for those interested in the truth and reconciliation process.