An Act of Defiance
MASSACHUSETTS PREMIERE
Special Event Commemorating Nelson Mandela’s Centennial
This rousing historical drama is based on the real events of the pivotal 1963 Rivonia Trial in apartheid South Africa when Nelson Mandela and nine of his black and Jewish compatriots faced possible death sentences, having been charged with conspiracy to commit sabotage and treason.
White Afrikaner lawyer Bram Fischer (the excellent Peter Paul Muller) risks everything to defend the activists, all the while hiding his own ties to the resistance. A political thriller full of courtroom intrigue, the film is also a powerful exploration of the sacrifices required to stand against injustice. Winner of nine film festival audience and jury awards, including honors for best film, actor, actress, and script.
Screening as part of the National Center for Jewish Film’s 21st annual film festival.