Where can I watch The Act of Killing?

In the haunting documentary The Act of Killing (2012), director Joshua Oppenheimer invites viewers into the mind of former Indonesian death squad leaders as they reenact their roles in the mass killings during the country’s anti-communist purge of 1965-66. This audacious approach blends the chilling realities of their past with cinematic flair, as the perpetrators adopt various film genres—from film noir to musicals—to reconstruct their brutal acts of violence. Through this unsettling lens, the film not only exposes the horrors of their actions but also delves into the psychology of these men, showcasing how they grapple with guilt, pride, and the façade of heroism.

The film's innovative structure serves as a powerful commentary on memory, guilt, and the nature of storytelling itself. As the death squad leaders perform their atrocities, the line between reality and performance blurs, forcing both the participants and the audience to confront uncomfortable questions about morality and complicity. Oppenheimer’s work doesn't just document the past; it challenges viewers to reflect on the present and the ongoing ramifications of these historical events. With an IMDb rating of 8.2, The Act of Killing is not just a film but an immersive experience that compels you to reconsider the narratives we construct around violence and power, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the darker corners of human history.