Discussion Guide for films about torture

Discussion Guide for seeing a film about torture (“Ghosts of Abu Ghraib,” “Standard Operating Procedure,” etc)

Over the past few years, filmmakers have been drawn to the stories of those who have been caught up in the war against terror. These stories, augmented with pictures taken by American troops and first person interviews with both torturers and victims, serve as a powerful narrative about the effect that abuse and mistreatment have on both perpetrator and victim. Their words are in dialogue with an official narrative that tells us that the U.S. does not torture, that the innocent are not affected by American tactics, and that “enhanced interrogation” is an effective way to keep us safer. It is important to hear these stories and see these pictures.

All the same, these images are graphic and jarring. Before you bring one of these films to your community, please be aware that they are for mature audiences only. RHR-NA has a resource available for use with older children and younger teenagers. Allow time after the film for discussion—be sure to create a safe space for people to air their reactions. Preview the film so that you have a chance to anticipate some of your community’s questions. Educate yourself whether the film relies on reenactments or other techniques that might cause people to question its accuracy. Take the time to read background material on the current situation, what constitutes torture, and why torture is not effective. Here are some recent articles about U.S.-sponsored torture. Most importantly, have an action planned for after the film. After seeing a disturbing film on torture, your community will want to know what they can do to help. Distribute an RHR-NA advocacy initiative, NRCAT’s monthly action items to end torture, plan a delegation to speak with an elected official, or plan to gather members of the community to learn more. If there is strong interest in your community to work on against torture and for human rights, consider joining K’vod Habriot: A Jewish Human Rights Network, if you have not already done so.

Set a spiritual tone for the event. You might want to consider beginning with a prayer for people everywhere who have been victims of torture, such as the Misheberach for Victims of Torture or the following brief set of meditations and readings. Acknowledge that as Jews, we are not supposed to participation in the humiliation of others and that witnessing this humiliation will be difficult to see. After the showing the film, allow time for silence as the viewers digest what they have seen. Perhaps let them speak in pairs about their reactions before beginning the group discussion. Be respectful of everyone’s reaction.

The following questions are meant as suggestions. Another useful resource is the National Religious Campaign Against Torture’s discussion guide for “Ghosts of Abu Ghraib.”

1) What story is the filmmaker trying to tell? How does this affect the point of view of the film?
2) How do you think the torture and abuse has affected the victims? How do you think it has affected the perpetrators?
3) Is torture ever justified? Would the torture question be different if torture was shown to be effective? What do you think are the limits of what can be done to keep Americans safe?
4) What does Judaism teach us about torture? What should our reaction as Jews and as citizens be to the current situation?
5) What is the best way to make sure that those who authorized torture are held responsible and that the U.S. never tortures again?
6) Does American use of torture affect our safety abroad or that of our troops?
7) Do you see the image of God in the victims of torture? Would you feel the same about torture victims who are also known to be terrorists?
8) What actions do you feel inspired to take? What can we do if we feel helpless?

9) The State of Israel prohibits the use of torture in interrogations. Can we extrapolate from their situation to ours? Should we?