Representation of post-apartheid South Africa's socio-economic and political challenges : an analysis of selected documentary films

Abstract

The study analysed the representation of post-apartheid socio-economic and political challenges in the selected South African documentary films; Miner Shot Down (2013) and Dear Mandela (2011). Its main argument evolves from the view that despite documentary films’ growing influence in understanding the relationship between the media and society, its role as an agent of social change is still in its infancy. Little attention has been given to the reality genre as social scientists have overlooked it, as they mainly focus on the traditional media. The films were selected based on their detailed illustrations, which mirror social injustice and challenges faced by societies in post-apartheid South Africa, distinct from the mainstream media that proved their cosy partnership with the state and business. The study adopted a descriptive interpretive design within the qualitative approach to examine the representation of post-colonial challenges faced by South Africans as portrayed in the selected documentary films, which also analysed filmic elements, described socio-economic and political challenges and explored ideological frames used in the documentaries to portray post-apartheid challenges being experienced by South Africans. Data was collected ranging from extensive literature to audio-visual content analysis, which entailed an analysis of the content of films such as language, context, setting and subject themes, and involved slow motions and replays. This instrument was selected based on its appropriateness in the study of documentary films, which consisted of images, conversations, speeches, audio and music and each documentary film was divided into scenes that composed a table of scenes which facilitated thorough analyses of filmic features, visuals and narratives. The analysis revealed that the documentaries are a critical contribution to society’s understanding of the unjust practices by corporate companies and government authorities who are expected to jointly work towards uplifting the lives of all citizens in the country. The study also noted that both documentary scripts have succeeded in presenting a critical contemporary reflection of the perpetuation of colonial and apartheid tendencies against human rights, economic equality and social justice among citizens in democratic South Africa. Furthermore, the study appreciates the films’ use of symbolism and juxtaposition that highlight Nelson Mandela as a true revolutionary symbol of sacrifice, nation-building, and selfless leadership, which are lacking qualities in today’s political space. Ideologically, this demonstrates a shift of power relations, which both films frame as popular humanistic demands placed on authorities to become responsive to the will of the citizens, particularly the working class and homeless people. Therefore, the study recommends that the producers invest in extensive academic research to delve deeper into understanding how the documentary genre is influenced by multiple-disciplinary contestations and, the application of reconstruction (blended) scripting formats which would help to achieve the composition and cinema verite effectively. Lastly, the critical reflection of contemporary neo-colonial and apartheid tendencies (or ideological) within the current government and corporate sector(s) would benefit from the infusion of some theoretical underpinnings