Ep 13. The Act of Killing

In season 27 episode 13 of POV, titled "The Act of Killing," viewers are taken on a journey deep into the minds of former Indonesian death squad leaders who were responsible for mass genocide in the mid-1960s. The documentary is a chilling examination of the psychological aftermath of mass killings and the lingering effects on a nation where criminals not only walk free but openly celebrate their crimes.

The film is a bold and courageous examination of a taboo subject, as filmmakers travel to Indonesia to confront the killers who brag about their crimes with impunity. The story is told through the eyes of two men, Anwar Congo and Herman Koto, who played significant roles in the mass killings that claimed the lives of over one million people. The filmmakers grant both men the opportunity to tell their stories, but it becomes clear that neither man is eager to reveal the full extent of their atrocities.

Despite their reticence, the documentary is populated with incredible recollections from these men, including vivid descriptions of how they killed their targets. Anwar, for example, describes his preferred method of strangulation, which he practiced in his youth on chickens. The men openly discuss their methods, including beheadings and torture, and seem completely at ease as they recount their crimes.

The filmmakers document the killers as they reenact their crimes for the camera. They organize lavish sets and costumes, and even use makeup to emulate the blood and gore of their victims. It's a surreal and chilling experience to watch, as these men relive their crimes with pride and without a hint of remorse.

The film's title refers to the performative nature of these reenactments. The men, who are clearly uncomfortable with the attention, still find it difficult to resist the opportunity to perform for the camera. The reenactments are essentially a way to rewrite history, with the killers positioning themselves as heroes rather than murderers.

As the documentary progresses, the focus shifts to the current government, which has actively protected men like Anwar and Herman from prosecution. It's a sobering reminder of the far-reaching impact of a nation's acceptance of violence and how even the most heinous acts can be normalized and celebrated.

Overall, "The Act of Killing" is a nuanced examination of a difficult subject. The filmmakers do an excellent job of humanizing the killers, while still never letting them off the hook for their crimes. This act of empathy ultimately serves to highlight the lack of accountability and acknowledgement present in the current political climate of Indonesia. The filmmakers leave the audience with a powerful message about the importance of confronting the past and grappling with the true consequences of mass violence. It's a powerful and necessary documentary that will leave viewers shaken but enlightened.