Film Beyond Borders: A Case Study of Inter-Cultural Dialogue and Critical Pedagogy in Malta’s Migrant Communities

Abstract

This paper examines collaborative approaches to harnessing the power of storytelling for change and considers the process of working with students, grassroots organisations, campaigners and activists from migrant communities to make films that have an impact and a legacy and counteract narratives of disinformation. A project was developed at the intersection of film, communities and social justice campaigning to provide a mechanism to connect with global concerns through cross-cultural collaboration. This collaboration facilitates theoretical and methodological innovations that can develop studies of the experience of migration through mutual learning for all collaborators. Notably, in this case study from Malta, the findings demonstrate how inter-cultural collaboration generates space and agency for migrants to discuss their experiences of social conflict and migration on their own terms. The study also indicates that documentary films have potential as a pedagogic tool, and can exert a mutual influence on student development.