The Peacemaker 2016
Distributed by Grasshopper Films, 12 East 32nd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10016
Directed by James Demo
DVD , color, 88 min.
General Adult
Activism, Aging, Alcoholism, Arab-Israeli Conflict, Communication, Global Issues, Iraq War, Politics, War
Date Entered: 07/12/2018
Reviewed by Linda Frederiksen, Washington State University, Vancouver, WAPadraig O”Malley is an internationally recognized author, educator, and conflict negotiator. For the past 40 years, he travelled to many of the world’s hotspots, bringing opposing parties together—with varying degrees of success--to discuss and resolve differences. From Northern Ireland to South Africa, from Iraq to Kosovo to Jerusalem to Nigeria, he embodies his own strong personal commitment to the idea that divided societies are in the best position to help and understand each other.
While O’Malley’s activities and accomplishments are notable, filmmaker Demo goes deeper into his subject’s private life to understand the objectives and motivations for this difficult work. An alcoholic himself, O’Malley is a man defined by conflict and inner turmoil. Deeply intelligent, charismatic and socially adept on the world stage, he lives an isolated and lonely life, constantly worried about his sobriety and declining health.
This portrait of a fascinating personality is recommended for general audiences as well as conflict studies classes.