[PolarBear]

[size=2]After seeing The Interpreter I once again thought of the disadvantage several modern film productions are placing Africa’s global image at. I enjoyed the film but can’t help wonder about the continental image that must be forming in the mind of filmgoers outside Africa. Maybe it would be more understandable to first consider a few big feature films that has shaped or changed the way we look at other countries/continents. Films do not go about deliberately promoting the countries in which they are produced but nonetheless convey certain images, positive or negative, about the countries they portray. I think the relatively recent string of feature films surrounding the numerous atrocities in various African countries has definitely damaged the global image of the entire African continent. Consider movies like Black Hawk Down, Tears of the Sun and recently, The Interpreter. Although excellent movies in their own right, we have reason to be concerned. Many African countries heavily rely on tourism and the impact of a film specifically focussed on one country can be substantial. This is evident if we look at the incredible positive boost that Kenya received in their tourism industry the year following the release of the film, Out of Africa. There is definitely a growing need for the production of films utilising African culture and scenery as a positive backdrop for films viewed worldwide.