Socially Constructing Contexts and Imaginations through Filmic Simulacra: The Case of Invictus

Abstract

 Geographies and histories are important to acknowledge when viewing filmic productions to understand renditions of places and social groups. Contemporary issues relevant to geography and history are often communicated through a host of visual images – widely and readily accessible. In this regard, films contribute to knowledge of places by creating geographical imaginations, and thus require an interpretation of their content and context. The following commentary assesses the film Invictus, critically examining the role of rugby alongside with racial divisions in South Africa. Geopolitical struggles over nationalism are incorporated to indicate the role of sport pertinent to contexts and representations of international events, domestic politics, and race in South Africa following the period of apartheid.