Independent Lens Season 11 Episode 15 Behind the Rainbow

Behind the Rainbow is the powerful and emotional story of the transition from apartheid to democracy in South Africa. This episode of Independent Lens Season 11 takes a look at the key players in the struggle for racial equality, including former ANC member Winnie Mandela and current President Cyril Ramaphosa. Through never-before-seen archival footage, interviews with key figures, and a deeply personal narrative, Behind the Rainbow paints a vivid picture of the fight for freedom and the challenges that came with it.

The documentary follows the story of the African National Congress (ANC), the political party that led the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. Through interviews with former members and leaders of the ANC, viewers gain an inside look at the workings of the organization and the difficult decisions that had to be made to bring about change. The documentary also delves into the complex relationship between the ANC and the South African Communist Party (SACP), which played a critical role in the struggle against apartheid.

In addition to exploring the political landscape of apartheid-era South Africa, Behind the Rainbow also highlights the human toll of the struggle for freedom. Through interviews with family members and loved ones of key figures like ANC leader Chris Hani, the documentary shows the impact that the loss of loved ones had on those who fought for change in South Africa. The film also explores the legacy of apartheid and the ongoing struggle for social justice in the country today.

Throughout the film, viewers are given a glimpse into the complex web of relationships and alliances that fueled the movement for change in South Africa. From the communist ties of the ANC to the often tumultuous relationships between different factions of the movement, Behind the Rainbow paints a nuanced and detailed picture of the struggle for freedom and its significance not just in South Africa, but in the larger context of global social justice movements.

The documentary also features interviews with key figures in the movement, including Cyril Ramaphosa, who played a critical role in the negotiations that led to the end of apartheid. Through his first-hand account of the difficult negotiations and behind-the-scenes machinations that brought about change, viewers gain an inside look at the complexities of the transition from apartheid to democracy. The film also features interviews with key members of the international community, including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and former US President Bill Clinton, who played a role in pressuring the South African government to end apartheid.

In addition to exploring the key players and events that shaped the struggle for freedom in South Africa, Behind the Rainbow also highlights the ongoing challenges facing the country today. From the continued racial inequality that persists to the ongoing crisis surrounding HIV/AIDS, the film shows that the legacy of apartheid is still felt in South Africa today. Yet even in the face of these challenges, the documentary highlights the resilience and strength of the South African people, and their ongoing commitment to democracy and social justice.

Overall, Behind the Rainbow is a must-watch episode for anyone interested in the history of the struggle for racial equality in South Africa and the ongoing fight for social justice around the world. Through its powerful storytelling, expert commentary, and never-before-seen footage, the documentary offers a fascinating and moving portrait of one of the most important events of the twentieth century.