Film Medium and Interculturalism in the Digital Era: A Study of Frank Rajah Arase’s Ghana must Go

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a growing advocacy for recognizing cultural diversity and fostering mutual understanding, acceptance, and respect among people from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. This movement is based on the belief that meaningful intercultural interactions benefit all members of society. Africa, a continent rich in cultural diversity, has long struggled with ethno-tribal conflicts, many of which have escalated into full-scale wars. These conflicts have led to significant loss of life, destruction of property, and irreversible damage to both individual and collective heritage. Given this reality, exploring innovative ways to promote peaceful coexistence in a culturally diverse modern Africa is crucial. Film, as a widely accessible medium in the digital era, offers a powerful tool for fostering intercultural dialogue. This study employs Pierre Sorlin’s interpretative analytical approach to analyze Frank Rajah Arase’s Ghana must Go, assessing how Nollywood films contribute to intercultural discourse while addressing the gap in existing research. Findings suggest that Nollywood’s portrayal of intercultural conflicts can foster dialogue on cultural acceptance. Hence, the study argues that films are effective media for promoting cultural harmony and conflict resolution in Africa.

Highlights

• Nollywood’s portrayal of intercultural conflicts can foster dialogue on cultural acceptance.


• The study deciphers and interrogates aspects of the film in view that reflects intercultural relationships within the African society with emphasis on West Africa and infers meanings upon which the discourse and suppositions on the subject matter are made.


• The much-anticipated change towards embracing interculturalism is achievable through films as they have been proven to influence and form characters.