Haile Gerima’s 2021 assertion that the current generation of African filmmakers must reflect on a continent that has “lost its mind” could be read as a provocative starting point for contemplating Africa’s colonial legacy.
The statement, maybe jarring at first, begins to resonate when we consider the continent as an entity that has endured over a century of trauma, exploitation, and upheaval, leading to deep psychological and cultural wounds.
Among these disruptions, the Berlin Conference of 1884-1885 was certainly a pivotal moment – when European powers, without African representation, carved up the continent, setting the stage for decades of colonial rule.
Gerima’s “creative challenge” put me on a path to understand why the Berlin Conference, even as a backdrop, despite the aftermath, and its monumental impact, hasn’t yet been the subject of a major film or television series.
Last month, Akoroko Premium subscribers received a think piece that considers the Berlin Conference as the main subject for a film or TV series that explores the actual conference and its profound, lasting impact.
To receive the piece, subscribe at the link in the bio or copy/paste: https://akoroko.com/subscribe/