The Other Man: F.W. de Klerk and the End of Apartheid 2015

Biography

History

Documentary

Box Office

$1.7K

Runtime

75 min

Language

English

Directed by

Nicolas Rossier

Made by

First Run Features

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for The Other Man: F.W. de Klerk and the End of Apartheid (2015). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

De Klerk held the position of president of South Africa from 1989 until 1994. A pivotal moment in his leadership occurred in 1990 when he made the significant decision to release the leading anti-apartheid activist, Nelson Mandela, who had spent an astounding 27 years in prison. This release coincided with the repeal of all major apartheid laws, including the lifting of the ANC ban. Initially, de Klerk was a proponent of the apartheid state; however, he is now recognized for his crucial role in dismantling South Africa’s racial segregation policies. Together with Nelson Mandela, he guided the nation towards becoming a multi-racial democracy.

Throughout the years, there has been extensive speculation regarding de Klerk’s motivations and his impact on this evolving landscape. Is it appropriate to view him as a South African Fujimori or Kissinger? What truly constitutes de Klerk’s legacy? What transformations led this man, who fervently defended the privileges of white Africans, to initiate such profound changes towards a more equitable nation? The film delves deep into the political complexities of his tenure during apartheid and examines his intricate relationship with Mandela. It paints a portrait of a man who has been both reviled and celebrated, somehow remaining in the shadows despite his significant contributions.

The narrative of de Klerk is also synonymous with the story of South Africa itself, as its oppressive past and remarkable transformation consistently shape its social and political identities in ways that resonate both locally and internationally. The documentary includes exclusive interviews with de Klerk himself, alongside prominent figures such as Thabo Mbeki (former president of S.A.), Roelf Meyer, and Leon Wessels (former minister in the de Klerk cabinet). It also features insights from Albie Sachs (an anti-apartheid activist and former judge on the Constitutional Court of South Africa), Mathews Phosa (former ANC Treasurer General and anti-apartheid activist), Yasmin Sooka (former commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission), Richard Goldstone (who led the Goldstone Commission investigations into political violence in South Africa), and many others who were instrumental in both pre- and post-apartheid South Africa. Through these accounts, the film illuminates the profound legacy of de Klerk and the ongoing narrative of a country forever marked by its history.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of The Other Man: F.W. de Klerk and the End of Apartheid (2015) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

De Klerk Becomes President

In 1989, F.W. de Klerk ascended to the presidency of South Africa. Initially, he was a staunch defender of the apartheid system, which enforced racial segregation and discrimination against non-white citizens.

1989 South Africa

Release of Nelson Mandela

In 1990, de Klerk made the momentous decision to release Nelson Mandela, the prominent anti-apartheid leader who had been imprisoned for 27 years. This action marked a pivotal shift in South Africa's political landscape, signaling the beginning of the end of apartheid.

1990 Robben Island, South Africa

Repeal of Apartheid Laws

Following Mandela's release, de Klerk's government worked to repeal key apartheid laws. This included lifting the ban on the African National Congress (ANC), a significant step towards creating a multi-racial democracy in South Africa.

1990 South Africa

Negotiations for Democracy

Throughout the early 1990s, de Klerk engaged in negotiations with various political leaders, including Mandela, to establish a democratic framework for South Africa. These discussions were fraught with tension but were crucial in laying the groundwork for the new political order.

1990-1994 South Africa

The First Multiracial Elections

In April 1994, South Africa held its first multiracial elections, a defining moment in the nation's history. Mandela was elected as president, and his victory symbolized the end of decades of institutionalized racial discrimination.

April 1994 South Africa

Formation of a New Government

Following the elections, a new government was formed, led by Mandela and incorporating a coalition of different parties. De Klerk's National Party played a significant role in this transition, reflecting the complexity of the political landscape.

May 1994 South Africa

Truth and Reconciliation Commission

In 1995, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established to investigate human rights violations that occurred during apartheid. This initiative aimed to offer a platform for victims and perpetrators to share their experiences and foster healing in a divided society.

1995 South Africa

De Klerk's Legacy Questioned

Despite his role in dismantling apartheid, de Klerk's legacy remains a topic of intense debate. Some critics argue that he remains a controversial figure due to his past support for segregation, while others view him as a pragmatic leader who made necessary compromises for change.

Post-Presidency Reflections

After leaving office in 1997, de Klerk continued to reflect on his legacy and the significant changes in South Africa. He participated in various discussions and interviews, revealing insights into the complexities of his decisions during a tumultuous period.

1997

Interviews with Key Figures

The film features interviews with important figures such as Thabo Mbeki, Roelf Meyer, and Albie Sachs, who provide perspectives on de Klerk's impact and the broader implications of his presidency. These conversations shed light on the multifaceted nature of South Africa's transition.

Continued Speculation on His Role

Years after his presidency, there remains speculation about de Klerk's motivations and actions. Debates continue regarding whether he was a reformer or merely someone adapting to changing circumstances out of self-interest.

Lasting Impact on South Africa

The transformation of South Africa under de Klerk's leadership has left a lasting impact on its social and political identities. The effects of the apartheid era and subsequent reforms continue to influence the country's dynamics and international relations.

South Africa

Characters

Explore all characters from The Other Man: F.W. de Klerk and the End of Apartheid (2015). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

F.W. de Klerk

F.W. de Klerk is depicted as a complex figure, once an staunch defender of apartheid who ultimately played a crucial role in its dismantling. His transformative actions towards the end of his presidency have made him both reviled and praised, highlighting the multifaceted nature of his legacy. The film explores his internal struggles and the motivations behind his shift towards reconciliation.

👔 Politician 🇿🇦 Historical Figure 🕰️ Controversial

Nelson Mandela

Nelson Mandela is portrayed as a symbol of resilience and hope, who emerged from 27 years of imprisonment to lead South Africa towards a democratic future. His strength and vision for a united nation stand in stark contrast to the oppressive past, making him a central character in the narrative of reconciliation. The dynamics of his relationship with de Klerk are pivotal in understanding the political landscape of the time.

✊ Activist 🇿🇦 Leader 📖 Inspirational

Setting

Learn where and when The Other Man: F.W. de Klerk and the End of Apartheid (2015) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

1989-1994

The period from 1989 to 1994 was transformative for South Africa, marked by the end of apartheid and the establishment of a multi-racial democracy. This era saw the release of Nelson Mandela and comprehensive reforms that dismantled decades of institutionalized racial segregation. It was a time of both hope and tension as the country navigated its new identity.

Location

South Africa

South Africa is a country located at the southern tip of the African continent. Known for its diverse cultures and complex history, it was the epicenter of the anti-apartheid movement, leading to significant social and political changes. The transition from apartheid to a multi-racial democracy marked a crucial chapter in its narrative, with Nelson Mandela and F.W. de Klerk playing pivotal roles.

🌍 Location 🇿🇦 Country

Themes

Discover the main themes in The Other Man: F.W. de Klerk and the End of Apartheid (2015). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

🕊️

Reconciliation

Reconciliation is a central theme in the movie, exploring how former adversaries navigated their complicated relationships in the wake of apartheid's end. The film highlights the struggles and successes of building a unified nation from a history of division. It delves into the moral and ethical implications faced by leaders during South Africa's transition to democracy.

⚖️

Justice

The theme of justice resonates throughout the narrative, examining the legal and societal changes that sought to address past injustices. The film presents an in-depth look at the various figures who played roles in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, underscoring the challenges in pursuing justice for a deeply fractured society. It poses questions about accountability and the legacy of past actions.

👥

Leadership

Leadership is a prominent theme, as the film assesses de Klerk's role in dismantling apartheid while grappling with his controversial past. The portrayal of his political journey raises important discussions about the complexities of leadership during transitional periods. It reflects on the sacrifices and decisions made by leaders in their pursuit of national harmony.

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