What We Can Learn from Hotel Rwanda

There are a lot of disturbing films out there. Some are made just for the shock factor, like the great number of horror movies coming out in theatres lately. Yet there are still some films that knock us off balance for a reason; they actually serve a point, teach a lesson.

Hotel Rwanda is one film that leaves a lasting impression; not for it's violence but for it's heart-wrenching message about the dark side of humanity, and the ever-prevailing existence of hope.

The film is based on a true story about a man who saved over 1200 refugees in Rwanda during the 1994 genocide, when over a million people were killed in a one hundred day time period.

Paul Rusesabagina is that man, and worked directly with actor Don Cheadle to ensure that Don understood the character he was playing and what the experience was like when it occurred in real life, making the film even more realistic.

Rusesabagina is still alive today, trying to raise awareness about human rights and the importance of saving lives. His message is especially relevant today because of the genocide that has been going on in Darfur.

He travels all over the United States to spread his message. This week on Thursday October 18, he will be speaking in Springfield, MA. Hopefully his teachings will help the rest of the world to wake up and take a stand against global atrocities.