Punitive Damage 1999
Punitive Damage (1999) dives into one mother's relentless fight for justice after her son was killed in the 1991 Dili massacre in East Timor.
Director: Annie Goldson
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Punitive Damage (1999) about?
This documentary chronicles New Zealander Helen Todd's courageous lawsuit against an Indonesian general after her son was fatally shot during the 1991 Dili massacre in East Timor. It blends personal tragedy with a broader investigation into political oppression and the fight for accountability in occupied territories.
Who directed Punitive Damage?
Annie Goldson directed Punitive Damage. Known for her work in socially conscious documentaries, Goldson crafts a deeply personal yet universally resonant story of justice and resilience.
Who stars in Punitive Damage?
The film stars Helen Todd, Allan Nairn, Constansio Pinto, and Alison Murray, with Todd herself taking center stage as the protagonist of this real-life legal drama.
Is Punitive Damage (1999) worth watching?
Though unrated, this documentary offers a powerful and emotionally charged perspective on a pivotal moment in modern history. Its themes of justice and perseverance make it a compelling watch for those interested in political documentaries and human rights narratives.
How long is Punitive Damage?
Punitive Damage (1999) has a runtime of 73 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Punitive Damage (1999) — A Mother's Legal Battle Against State Violence
Punitive Damage (1999) dives into one mother's relentless fight for justice after her son was killed in the 1991 Dili massacre in East Timor. Director Annie Goldson crafts a gripping documentary that follows New Zealander Helen Todd as she takes on an Indonesian general in a landmark lawsuit, seeking accountability for state violence. Blending raw historical footage with intimate personal interviews, the film captures the emotional weight of Todd's quest for truth while exposing the brutal realities of political oppression. With themes of maternal grief, systemic injustice, and the power of individual resistance, Goldson's work is both a harrowing recounting of trauma and a testament to the enduring spirit of those who refuse to remain silent.
This 73-minute documentary is a compelling exploration of justice beyond borders, highlighting how one woman's courage can challenge global indifference. Through the lens of Helen Todd's legal battle, the film examines the erosion of human rights in occupied territories and the personal toll of unanswered violence. With a focus on clarity and emotional resonance, Punitive Damage (1999) leaves viewers with lingering questions about accountability, legacy, and the cost of perseverance in the face of overwhelming odds.