WhatsApp Coach

Films Discussion Guide

At the centre of the project is the Heartlines Fathers Matter film series, comprising seven different films set in various places around South Africa. Each film is a deeply moving and inspiring drama that explores the complexities of fatherhood in South Africa today.

There are also two mini-documentaries; one about the link between father absence and violence, and the other about the important role that father figures can play in children’s lives.

Through these films and mini-documentaries we want to create awareness about why fathers matter and get people talking and sharing ideas about the importance of fatherhood.

All the films and mini-documentaries are available to watch for free online:

This discussion guide based on the films can be used by organisations or groups to:

  • Create awareness and start conversations about why a father should be positively involved in his child’s life – no matter how old they are.
  • Create a supportive environment and share resources that organisations and people can use to promote positive fatherhood.

NB – This material is designed to be used by everyone and is NOT just for men.

  • File size: 45.733 MB
  • Format: pdf
  • Length: 48 pages
  • Language: English
  • Publisher Name: Heartlines
  • Date Published: Apr 21, 2026
Alt title
Fathers Matter Discussion Guide
45.733 MB

How to use this discussion guide

While there is a synopsis for each film and mini-documentary in this guide, your group will benefit the most if everyone watches it before participating in the discussion.

For anyone hosting a film discussion, these guiding principles may be helpful:

  • Help the group take a journey of discovery together.
  • Create an environment where people feel free to express their
  • thoughts.
  • Model respect, trust, understanding, empathy and safety.
  • Prepare well. Decide beforehand which film or mini-documentary is best suited to your group’s context.
  • Don’t force anyone to share if they’re not comfortable to do so.
  • Pay attention, ‘read the room’ and adjust timings or conversations according to what your group needs.
  • Allow people to share examples from their lives that could enhance the learning experience.

Your group doesn’t need to answer all of the discussion questions. Pick the ones you would like to talk through together. You can also use the general guiding questions below, or, to take the conversation further, you can ask people to reflect on their own father stories.

General film discussion questions

  • What did you think of the film?
  • What did you think of the different characters?
  • How did the film make you feel?
  • Are there any particular moments in the film that stood out for you?
  • Imagine you are a particular character from the film. What would you
  • have said or done in that situation that would be best for the child?