The Werner Institute presents the dynamics of conflict and negotiation through its film series at Film Streams theater.

Emily Wynn Scene Editor	February 10, 2010

Conflict is getting another look with a special film series. The Werner Institute for Negotiation and Dispute Resolution and Film Streams paired up to produce a unique film series examining conflict and its resolution.

“The goals of the film series are to provide opportunities for participants to view quality movies that portray the dynamics of interpersonal and public conflicts and the limitations of the adversary legal or political systems to address certain conflicts,” Dr. Arthur Pearlstein, director of the Werner Institute, said.

Conflict is an integral part of life, Pearlstein said, but sometimes the way to resolve issues is not apparent. The movies chosen show the audience different ways to handle conflict.

“Conflict is an ever-present entity in the lives of all people, including students. Working through the conflicts we encounter constructively can lead to innovation and growth. Being aware of the dynamics conflict creates can allow each student to make more appropriate decisions towards resolving the conflicts they encounter,” said Bryan Hanson, assistant director of the Werner Institute.

All three films will have an open discussion afterwards so audience members can learn even more about what they saw in the movie.

Both Hanson and Pearlstein said they hope the attendees of the film series will have a greater understanding of the importance of conflict resolution after watching and participating in the discussion.

“This will obviously be a very short glimpse into the work and education we do at the Werner Institute for Negotiation and Dispute Resolution at Creighton Law School. We hope there will be students that would be interested in getting more involved in our events and possibly our graduate program,” Pearlstein said.

“The Sweet Hereafter,” which will screen on Feb. 18 at 7 p.m., portrays a small community coping with the loss of several of its children in a horrible school bus accident. Barely able to cope with their loss, the grieving parents are approached by a lawyer that encourages them to sue for damages. Pearlstein said they chose this film because it portrays some of the limitations of the legal system and the problematic role people sometimes assign it. The discussion following the film will examine these topics and explore alternatives to formal legal remedies.

“9500 Liberty,” screening on Feb. 24 at 7 p.m., was released last fall and portrays the fascinating dynamics of a Virginia-based community dealing with a divisive conflict about immigration. Pearlstein said the issues raised in this movie are probably relevant to all of the communities in the United States, including ours. His goal in the post-movie discussion will be to illuminate the value of dialogue and civic engagement in approaching difficult public issues such as immigration.