A World Apart is a 1988 drama film directed by Chris Menges and written by Shawn Slovo. The film takes place in 1960s Johannesburg, South Africa, during the height of apartheid. Molly Roth, a 13-year-old girl, is the daughter of anti-apartheid activists Gus and Diana Roth. Molly's world is turned upside down when her father goes into hiding after barely evading arrest, and her mother is imprisoned by the authorities.
As Molly tries to piece together what is happening to her family, she is forced to confront the harsh realities of apartheid. Her White friends turn against her when they learn of her family's political affiliations, and her family's friendships with Blacks take on new meaning. Molly is confused and hurt as she watches her parents and their friends fight against the oppressive regime, facing constant harassment and the threat of imprisonment.
As the situation becomes increasingly dangerous, Molly is sent to live with her grandmother, who is also a supporter of the anti-apartheid movement. It is here that Molly begins to find her own voice and identity. She discovers her own passion for activism and begins to understand the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.
The film includes powerful performances from Barbara Hershey as Diana Roth, Jodhi May as Molly, and Jeroen Krabbé as Gus Roth. A World Apart offers a poignant and sensitive portrayal of a family torn apart by apartheid, and the courage it takes to fight against injustice. The film was well-received by critics and was nominated for the Palme d'Or at the 1988 Cannes Film Festival.