What's Happening?
Ethiopian filmmaker Haile Gerima premiered his historical epic 'Black Lions – Roman Wolves' at the Berlin Film Festival. The film, which took 30 years to complete, examines Italy's colonial campaign in Ethiopia through archival footage and interviews.
Gerima, a pioneer of the L.A. Rebellion movement, aims to challenge the Italian narrative of the invasion and highlight the experiences of Ethiopians. The film's production faced challenges, including gaining access to archival footage held in European archives. Gerima's work seeks to open discussions on the accessibility of colonial archives for African filmmakers.
Why It's Important?
'Black Lions – Roman Wolves' is crucial for its exploration of colonial history and its impact on contemporary narratives. By using archival footage, Gerima challenges the dominant narratives and offers a platform for Ethiopian voices. The film highlights the importance of access to historical archives for African filmmakers, advocating for a more inclusive approach to film history. It also underscores the role of cinema in shaping historical narratives and the need for diverse perspectives in storytelling.
What's Next?
Following the premiere, Gerima plans to initiate public discussions on the accessibility of film archives, particularly for African filmmakers. He aims to mobilize support for a petition advocating for the rights to colonial footage. This initiative could lead to increased access to historical materials, enabling more diverse storytelling in cinema. The film's reception at the Berlin Film Festival may also influence future projects and collaborations focused on historical narratives.
