Katalog 2004 - DOK.fest München

Introduction
Obstructions totally dissolves all genre boundaries… We look forward
to our jury’s decisions with eager anticipation!
One topic which preoccupies many filmmakers around the world is
the drawing of new borders everywhere – boundaries fostering the
creation of more and more divisive walls, both within society and
against those on the outside. Tarifa Traffic, winner of numerous
awards, portrays everyday life on the Spanish outer border of the EU.
With its expansive tour d’horizon, Route 181 – Fragmente einer Reise
in Palästina-Israel refuses to divide the old territory Palestine into
two ethnically segregated states. Memories of Rain reflects, in all its
pros and cons, the decades of struggle against Apartheid in South
Africa.
Domestic Violence 2 is old master Frederick Wiseman’s latest film. In
this sequel to his great work on domestic violence, he records the
court battles between married couples.
India is currently witnessing a boom in documentary films. We are
pleased to present several films from the last two years. These include
A Night of Prophecy, Amar Kanwars lyrically philosophical plea
for human rights, and outstanding works on such social issues as resistance
against the Narmada Valley dam project, growing unemployment
in New Delhi or the chaotic traffic situation in the megacity
Mumbai. All of these films, like Final Solution, were either rejected by
the Mumbai International Film Festival or were withdrawn out of solidarity
with the ignored filmmakers and screened at the alternative
parallel event VIKALP – Films for Freedom.
Israel is the “Switzerland of the Near East”, as far as the quality of its
documentary films is concerned. The New Israeli Foundation for Cinema
& Television plays a major role, making films such as Paradise /
Gan Even Avud / Paradise Lost, Erusei Hadamim / Blood Engagement
or Bechzkat Satmar / In Satmar Custody possible. David Fisher, director
of the foundation, will join the directors of these films to report on
their collaborative efforts.
With its striking imagery, Ässhäk – Geschichten aus der Sahara /
Asshak, Tales From the Sahara is an engaging film about the lives of
Tuarag nomads – Pio Corradi and Ulrike Koch spent several years in
Niger. Die Thuranos, Schräge Zeit, Flammend Herz and Story are portraits
with both depth and high entertainment value. 66 sezón/66 seasons
is an amusingly philosophical look at summer, an outdoor swimming
pool and zest for life.
Naturally these are but a few personal recommendations from the
broad spectrum of this year’s festival.
There is plenty to discover. I wish you and all our guests a rewarding
Dok.Fest week, with inspiring films followed by stimulating discussions.
Hermann Barth
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