POV Season 21 Episode 9 The Judge and the General
- August 19, 2008
The POV series season 21, episode 9, titled "The Judge and the General," explores the complex political climate and the struggle for justice in Chile. The episode delves into the story of two individuals - Judge Juan Guzmán and General Augusto Pinochet - who have been on opposite sides of history but are now brought together in a controversial case.
In the aftermath of the Pinochet regime, Judge Guzmán is assigned to investigate the dictator's human rights violations. At the same time, Pinochet is under house arrest, and his legal defense team is gearing up to defend him against charges of torture, murder, and disappearances during his brutal rule. The two men come face to face in court, creating a tense moment that will shape the political future of Chile.
The episode follows Judge Guzmán's journey as he navigates through various legal and ethical dilemmas that arise while trying Pinochet. He has to reconcile his commitment to justice with the difficult task of bringing a former dictator to trial. Meanwhile, Pinochet pulls all the strings he can to evade justice and hold on to his power.
The show also brings to light the struggles of the victims and their families as they confront the atrocities and demand accountability. It paints a picture of the deep scars that still linger in Chile as a result of the 17-year military dictatorship.
The film incorporates footage of the tense courtroom drama, interviews with Judge Guzmán, Pinochet's family members, and victims' families, and archival footage that pieces together the history of Chile's turbulent political past. The episode offers a nuanced perspective on the different sides of this complex story and provides insight into the challenges that arise when trying to prosecute a former dictator.
Overall, "The Judge and the General" is a riveting and thought-provoking episode that delves into the dynamics of power, justice, and human rights struggles in post-dictatorship Chile. The episode presents a compelling narrative that captures the complexities of this historic legal case, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in international affairs, human rights, and political power dynamics.