Shake Hands with the Devil, directed by Roger Spottiswoode in 2007, is the film based off of United Nations (U.N.) general Romeo Dallaire’s memoir by the same name. As the leader of the U.N.’s peacekeeping mission in Rwanda Hollywood ” characterization of the conflict like Hotel Rwanda; rather it is an honest portrayal with a militaristic perspective. In my opinion, this is mostly a positive thing, although it does greatly limit the audience.
The main appeal of Shake Hands with the Devil is that it is factual, and does not sugarcoat the sickening circumstances faced by Rwanda. It was very honest, and the filmmakers took great pains to make sure that their portrayal was accurate. They did this mainly by filming in the exact locations where events actually occurred. This is very effective, as looking at the real places where the shocking events took place is very haunting and adds authenticity. The re-creation of actual footage is impeccable and has a lasting effect on the audience. It serves greatly educate viewers about how the conflict was ignited, as well as the main proceedings of the Rwandan genocide. After I watched Shake Hands with the Devil, I felt confident in my knowledge of the situation and the main people involved.
Shake Hands with the Devil was shot through the view of the U.N., specifically, from General Dallaire’s recollection. This is a very interesting and fresh perspective, as it is more common to hear about the incidences from survivors and refugees. Seeing the genocide through their eyes solidified my belief that they were doing all they could to pacify the situation, and the reason for their failure was a lack of support from their superiors. The troops were doing their best to save people, but their efforts were greatly hindered due to a lack of supplies and men. It is heartbreaking and very upsetting to see that they could have made much more of an impact and saved infinitely more innocent people, but could not because they were ignored by people who pretend to care but truly do not.
What I value most about Shake Hands with the Devil is its honesty and genuine look into one of the most shocking events in history. It does not try to be something it isn’t, or impart a particular message; it simply tells the story as one man remembers it. The intent is not for the film to be a big Hollywood hit, as it is for Hotel Rwanda; rather it is for the events to be told as accurately as possible, to make people aware of the Rwandan genocide. I especially appreciate the ending, which is not at all contrived, or made to be inspiring or feel-good. Unlike the majority of films, Shake Hands with the Devil has no resolution – it ends without anything major problems being solved as that is the reality of the situation. The actual conflict did not have a picture-perfect, moving ending, so the film didn’t either. I find this to be extremely commendable and brave on the film-makers’ part.
Shake Hands with the Devil is a film that I would highly recommend. Due to the graphic footage and serious subject matter, it is not suitable for young children, but older audiences will definitely benefit from seeing it. It is an excellently made movie, and provides a solid understanding of the Rwandan genocide.
