10 Great Films That Conflict-Sensitive Media Producers Should Watch

(Writer: Deepesh Thapa)

 “No art passes our conscience in the way film does, and goes directly to our feelings, deep down into the dark rooms of our souls.”

-Ingmar Bergman

Films serve as a powerful medium for acquiring knowledge and insight, directly engaging our senses of sight and sound. This article presents a carefully curated selection of ten classic films that foster sensitivity among content creators and media producers toward conflicts.

While not every film on this list specifically addresses Conflict-Sensitive Media, each one possesses the capacity to instill a profound sensitivity to the ramifications of conflict and the consequences that media professionals must grapple with. Whether one is a journalist, content creator, or media owner, these films offer valuable perspectives and provoke contemplation.

It is important to note that this article does not provide detailed film reviews, as it is not the appropriate platform for such discussions. Rather, our aim is to recommend these films as catalysts for conflict-sensitive media production. We briefly outline the importance of each film telling why you should watch it.

Ace in the Hole (Billy Wilder, 1951)

After a man becomes trapped in a collapsed cliff dwelling, triggering the attention of a journalist who has been dismissed by eleven major newspapers. Seizing the opportunity, the reporter begins a quest driven by sensationalism, popularity, and financial gain, crossing ethical boundaries to achieve his objectives. Over time, because of its provocative content, it has become a sort of metaphor for the longstanding issue of sensationalism within media establishments. It remains relevant today as we witness the devastating consequences that arise from the actions of irresponsible journalists and media outlets who position themselves as problem solvers, often neglecting their ethical responsibilities.

All the President’s Men (Alan J Pakula, 1976)

This film is arguably the most renowned and widely acclaimed film centered around journalism, primarily due to its exploration of the infamous Watergate scandal. Its significance is particularly pronounced for those engaged in investigative journalism, as it is based on real events and follows two journalists as they diligently pursue the truth behind the Watergate scandal, drawing information from diverse sources for The Washington Post. By watching this film, aspiring investigative journalists can gain invaluable insights into the art of safeguarding sources’ identities and relentlessly unraveling the intricate details of sensitive crimes until the exposure of the principal culprits are supported by concrete evidence. Moreover, the film also imparts lessons on effectively countering threats encountered during the investigative process. A must-see film for journalists.

Network (Sydney Lumet, 1976)

This widely acclaimed film is still relevant even during the age of the internet and social media since it’s about the struggle of television networks with poor ratings and profit. You’ll learn to what length can media go, ignoring all its ethics, just for the sake of high ratings, sensationalism, and profit. The film serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the potential consequences of sacrificing integrity and accuracy for sensationalism. Conflict-sensitive reporters will get a deeper understanding of responsible journalism. It challenges them to reflect on the potential dangers of prioritizing sensationalism over the accurate representation of conflicts, victims, and the wider societal impact. It serves as a powerful reminder to media producers of their role in shaping public opinion and the ethical responsibilities they hold in presenting conflicts with sensitivity and accuracy.

The Lives of Others (Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck, 2006)

Set during Cold War era, this film is about the monitoring of East Berlin residents by the secret police called “Stasi”. It centers around the story of a Stasi officer assigned to conduct surveillance on a playwright and his associates in East Germany during the Cold War. As he listens in on their conversations and observes their lives, he becomes deeply engrossed in their personal struggles, dreams, and relationships. He gets trapped in a moral dilemma between his duty as a Stasi officer and his newfound realization of the injustices perpetrated by the government. It explores themes of privacy, personal freedom, and the impact of monitoring and media in an oppressive society. 

Nightcrawler (Dan Gilroy, 2014)

We learn valuable lessons not only from films that convey positive messages or depict the triumph of good over evil but also from darker films that delve into the motivations of malevolent characters. This neo-noir thriller introduces us to an unabashedly conflict-insensitive anti-hero devoid of redeeming qualities. As a psychopathic and sociopathic individual, he demonstrates a complete disregard for empathy and the emotions of others. Working as a video reporter, he sells his crime footage to television networks, driven solely by monetary gain. You must not learn anything from this psychopath. The only thing you should learn from him is – – never be like him. 

The Insider (Michael Mann, 1999)

In general, individuals outside the media industry often believe that content creators and journalists bear the primary responsibility for their news and content. However, within this exceptional thriller, you will gain valuable insights into the crucial roles and responsibilities of a producer as well. The film centers around a former tobacco industry executive who transforms into a whistleblower by revealing the company’s illicit and harmful practices during an interview on a particular program. As the narrative unfolds, both the whistleblower and the program’s producer face severe threats and challenges. Through this gripping tale, you will learn strategies for safeguarding yourself and the interviewee, such as this whistleblower, from the social, legal, and psychological difficulties that arise.

Night and Fog (Alain Resnais, 1956)

If you want to see the harrowing portrayal of the Holocaust, then this documentary is for you since it has depicted the real horrors of the Nazi concentration camps. Although made ten years after the liberation of camps, this film was and is still devastating to any viewer due to the real videos inside there. This documentary compels you to confront the ethical imperative of accurately and sensitively representing the impact of conflicts, particularly in situations of extreme violence and oppression. It emphasizes the need to approach sensitive subject matter with empathy, respect, and a commitment to truth-telling. Must watch it.

Han Gong-ju (Lee Su-jin, 2013)

You need a brave, very brave, heart to see this slow-burning thriller. After you watch it, it crawls under your skin for weeks, or maybe, months. This film is about a victim of gang rape who tries to live on her own without begging for any sympathy from anybody from her society, country, or media. We all know how rape victims are portrayed and seen by society: instead of giving sympathy to them, they are seen as guilty themselves. So, all journalists, content creators, and even general people should see this film just to be empathic about rape victims. This film isn’t particularly a media-related film but is of significant value to any media or journalist, especially to conflict-sensitive media practitioners. You’ll always think about this film before you express your opinion about any rape victim. A must-watch film for all.

Spotlight (Tom McCarthy, 2015)

Based on the true events, this film revolves around the team (named Spotlight) of investigative journalists who are investigating about the child sex abuse that happened within the Catholic church by numerous priests in Boston. They are trying to expose those priests giving the voice to the victims who have long been silenced. “Spotlight” sheds light on the ethical responsibilities of journalists in handling sensitive information, protecting sources, and maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and integrity. It demonstrates the profound impact of investigative reporting on bringing about social change, raising public awareness, and holding institutions accountable for their actions.

The Innocents (Ann Fontaine, 2016)

“Some information is never meant to be revealed,” and this profound realization lies at the heart of this devastating film. Set in wartime Warsaw, Poland, during World War II, the story revolves around a French doctor who discovers that several nuns have been raped by armies, leaving them pregnant and in desperate need of assistance. Despite the risks, the doctor provides covert support, preserving their confidentiality, sensitivity, and prestige. While not directly related to the media, conflict-sensitive practitioners can learn from the doctor’s commitment to safeguarding sensitive events and maintaining the utmost discretion.