The best way to shed light on a social issue is to tell a story
This is beautifully illustrated in the short film Kavi, a social justice narrative that sheds light on modern day slavery through the simple telling of a story about an Indian boy who wants to play cricket. Gregg Helvey spent two and half years working on this 19-minute film, and this past Sunday he sat at the Oscars, where Kavi was nominated in the Short Film category.
I had the privilege to meet Gregg at The Idea Camp last year, and he told me that making a film that focuses on the issue actually does injustice to that issue. Focusing on telling a good story is what captures the heart of an audience. Diatribe, preaching, and fear-tactics will leave audiences feeling skeptical. Beautiful storytelling, however, touches hearts and inspires action.
There is more slavery today than there was during the African slave trade. Kavi is an important film. If you are a social advocate or work in non-profit work, you should get a copy. Audience screening packages are available on the website.
What other social-issue films do you know of that tell a pure story?
totally agree. This is good stuff.