Hotel Rwanda

Rating: 5

This movie is a huge eye opener to how small we sometimes think the world is, and how small it isn't. So many things happen in so many other places than where we live. We hear about atrocities occurring in other countries on T.V. or read about them on the internet, but they aren't a part of our reality. Sometimes we blame the media for being too negative and not displaying the true facts (which may be a valid argument), but the truth of the matter is that there are a lot of people suffering in the world and we should be more aware of them.

Hotel Rwanda is a true story about a rebellion that occured in the mid '90's involving two contentious groups of people, the Hutu and the Tutsi. The movie displays the faith and charity of a man, Paul Rusesabagina, who tried so hard to keep his family in a position to escape the unrest in Africa. He courageously extends his help to others in mortal danger at the same time he cares for the safety of his family. However, it's not a movie for the faint of heart; even watched filtered it carries a serious message with some disturbing images. It's not just a war, it's genocide. The acts of hatred, even to children, and the dimented thinking that infects the people can make your stomach churn. But Paul stands as the sole beacon of hope to otherwise desperate people. In a way, he stands as a Christ figure.

This movie definitely made me want to do more good. It encourages me to be more aware of the larger world around me and particularly to see my "problems" for what they are...nothing. How can I complain about trivial trials when people are fighting for their very lives?? It made me more cognizant of how blessed I really am and reminds me to maintain an eternal perspective.

(FYI: We checked this out from the library)