Exploring Boundaries: Film Series Explores Migration and Perspectives in German Cinema
Photo: Rushlake Media
Film enthusiasts and cultural explorers have an exciting opportunity to delve into the multifaceted topic of migration through a captivating film series titled “Grenzen in der Mitte” (Boundaries in the Middle). This thought-provoking event, taking place at Filmhaus on Königstraße 93, kicks off on Thursday, June 15, 2023, at 7:30pm. The series is a part of the larger exhibition “Horizonte. Geschichten und Zukunft der Migration” (Horizons: Stories and Future of Migration) hosted by the renowned Germanisches Nationalmuseum.
Curated by Enoka Ayemba and Biene Pilavci, “Grenzen in der Mitte” features a meticulously selected collection of 25 films that provide unique insights into migration experiences and perspectives in German cinema. Ayemba and Pilavci, both acclaimed curators in their respective fields, will be present at the opening to introduce the series and set the stage for an immersive cinematic journey.
The inaugural film of the series, “Jackfruit” (DE 2021, 34 min), directed by Thùy Trang Nguyễn, promises to captivate audiences with its compelling narrative. Nguyễn herself will be in attendance, offering viewers an exclusive opportunity to gain deeper insights into the creative process behind the film.
The curators are driven by a vision to challenge the prevailing Eurocentric discourse on migration within the German-speaking region. They aim to present authentic and intimate perspectives of filmmakers who have personally experienced migration and translated their stories into compelling cinematic works. In doing so, they shed light on the roots of prevailing opinions on migration, which often remain intertwined with Germany’s lesser-explored colonial past. By showcasing films that have been rarely seen and occupy the fringes of mainstream cinema, the Filmhaus brings them to the forefront, breaking down barriers, creating new spaces, fostering understanding, and paving the way for a more inclusive and post-migrant society.
Enoka Ayemba, renowned film curator and critic specializing in African and Afro-diasporic cinematography and anti-colonial movements, brings a wealth of expertise to the series. Ayemba has been serving as a consultant for the Berlinale Forum since 2019 and recently co-curated the supplementary program, “Fiktionsbescheinigung.” Furthermore, Ayemba is a member of the film selection committee for the pan-African film festival, FESPACO in Ouagadougou 2023.
Biene Pilavci, an accomplished filmmaker and curator, completed her directing studies at dffb in 2012 with the full-length documentary “Alleine Tanzen” (Dancing Alone). In collaboration with ZDF and ARTE, Pilavci co-created the documentary “Chronik einer Revolte – Ein Jahr Istanbul” (Chronicle of a Revolt – A Year in Istanbul) in 2013. Pilavci is a fellow of the Kulturakademie Tarabya in Istanbul and a co-founder of the film-focused network “Neue Deutsche Filmemacher:innen” (New German Filmmakers). She is also a founding curator of “Fiktionsbescheinigung,” the supplementary program of the Berlinale Forum.
The “Grenzen in der Mitte” film series offers more than just screenings. It presents an array of discursive formats, including engaging conversations with invited filmmakers. Additionally, during the opening weekend, a panel discussion on migrant perspectives will feature directors Philip Scheffner, Rafael Fuster Pardo, Merle Kröger, and the curators themselves. In collaboration with the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, Filmhaus also offers guided tours and film screenings tailored for adult audiences and school classes. Furthermore, a five-part school cinema program will commence on Monday, July 17, ensuring that students can actively participate in this enriching cinematic exploration. This film series is made possible through the collaborative efforts of Filmhaus and the Germanisches Nationalmuseum.
For further information about the “Grenzen in der Mitte” film series and related events, please visit www.kunstkulturquartier.de/filmhaus.
