In a world where the power of storytelling often seems underestimated, several films have emerged as catalysts for significant societal change. From addressing pressing social issues to inspiring legislative reforms, these cinematic works have proven that art can indeed influence policy. Amidst the recent debate sparked by author Arundhati Roy at the Berlin Film Festival, it is essential to highlight eight films that have not only entertained audiences but also transformed public opinion and prompted crucial legislative action.
The Impact of Film on Legislation
The notion that art should remain separate from politics has been challenged by numerous filmmakers and activists. Arundhati Roy’s withdrawal from the Berlin Film Festival jury over Wim Wenders’ comments about the political role of cinema has reignited discussions on the significant impact films can have on society. Wenders posited that while cinema fosters empathy, it does not necessarily change political landscapes. However, history tells a different story.
A Fantastic Woman: Changing Hearts and Laws
One of the most notable examples is Sebastián Lelio’s *A Fantastic Woman*, which tells the story of a transgender woman battling for acceptance from her deceased partner’s family. This poignant narrative resonated deeply in Chile, where it was both filmed and set. Following its success, the film’s creators were invited to meet with then-President Michelle Bachelet, who acknowledged its influence on public sentiment. The resultant shift in the political climate culminated in the passage of Chile’s gender identity law, which had been stalled in Congress for five years.
A Girl in the River: Breaking the Silence on Honour Killings
In 2016, Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy’s short documentary *A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness* won an Academy Award and spotlighted the tragic issue of honour killings in Pakistan. During her acceptance speech, Obaid-Chinoy revealed that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had pledged to reform the law on honour killings after watching her film. This direct influence led to legislative changes that enforced stricter penalties and closed loopholes allowing perpetrators to evade justice.
Cathy Come Home: A Catalyst for Homelessness Reform
Ken Loach’s 1966 television drama *Cathy Come Home* remains one of the most impactful pieces of British television. The story of a woman’s heartbreaking journey into homelessness provoked widespread public outrage and discussion. Although the immediate effects were limited, the film played a crucial role in the establishment of the homelessness charity Crisis shortly after its airing. It wasn’t until 1977, however, that the Housing (Homeless Persons) Act was passed, ensuring that homeless families were entitled to support from local councils.
A Handful of Ash: Advocating Against Female Genital Mutilation
Filmmakers Shara Amin and Nabaz Ahmed dedicated a decade to documenting the personal stories of those affected by female genital mutilation in Kurdistan, producing the impactful documentary *A Handful of Ash*. This poignant film raised awareness within the Kurdish parliament, leading to the passage of a bill that outlawed the practice in 2011. Ahmed reflected on its significance, stating that showcasing the film in parliament marked a significant breakthrough in their advocacy.
The Power of Storytelling in Addressing Injustice
Television dramas have also proven effective in highlighting injustices and prompting legislative change. For instance, the ITV series *Mr Bates vs the Post Office* brought attention to the Post Office Horizon scandal, ultimately leading to the introduction of the Post Office (Horizon System) Compensation Act 2024. This illustrates how powerful storytelling can galvanise action and bring long-overdue justice to those affected.
Silenced: A Wake-Up Call for Child Protection
Hwang Dong-hyuk’s *Silenced*, which exposed the sexual abuse of deaf children in South Korea, ignited public outrage and led to the enactment of the “Dogani law.” This legislation eliminated the statute of limitations for sexual crimes against minors and disabled individuals, showcasing the profound impact cinema can have on societal norms and legal frameworks.
Why it Matters
These films exemplify how cinema transcends mere entertainment, serving as a formidable force for social change. By bringing critical issues to the forefront, they have the power to influence public opinion and inspire lawmakers to take action. In an era where many view art as apolitical, these examples remind us that storytelling remains a vital tool for advocacy and reform, capable of shaping the very fabric of society. The challenge lies in recognising and harnessing this potential to address the pressing issues of our time.
