Resources

The Oscar nominated documentary Long Night's Journey Into Day is an exploration of the aftermath of the apartheid system. For over forty years, South Africa was governed by the most notorious form of racial domination since Nazi Germany. When it finally collapsed, those who had enforced apartheid's rule wanted amnesty for their crimes. Their victims wanted justice. As a compromise, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was formed. As it investigated the crimes of apartheid, the Commission brought together victims and perpetrators to relive South Africa's brutal history. By revealing the past instead of burying it, the TRC hoped to pave the way to a peaceful future. Long Night's Journey Into Day follows several TRC cases over a two-year period. The stories in the film underscore the universal themes of conflict, forgiveness, and renewal.

An online transcript and a facilitator’s guide are also available on the page. The guide includes discussion questions, teaching guidelines, historical background and essays expounding upon the main themes of the film.