Full Breakdown
Haile Gerima's Black Lions – Roman Wolves Debuts at Berlinale
2/17/2026, 8:59:29 PM
Overview of the Film and Its Significance
Ethiopian filmmaker Haile Gerima premiered his latest project, *Black Lions – Roman Wolves*, at the Berlinale film festival, marking his first feature since 2008. The film, which spans 531 minutes, explores Italy's colonial campaign in Ethiopia through a blend of archival footage and contemporary interviews. Gerima, a key figure in the L.A. Rebellion movement, aims to confront the historical narratives shaped by colonial powers.
Historical Context of the Film
Italy invaded Ethiopia in 1935 under the regime of Benito Mussolini, employing brutal tactics, including the use of poisonous mustard gas. The Italian government documented these events extensively, creating a paradox for Gerima, who noted that the footage used in his film comes from a colonial perspective that often demonized his people. He expressed a desire to reclaim and reinterpret these images, stating, “How can I use that image depicted by the Italian against itself?”
Gerima's Journey and Challenges
Gerima's journey to create *Black Lions – Roman Wolves* spanned three decades, driven by a personal quest to understand his own miseducation under a colonial educational system. He emphasized the struggle to access archival footage, revealing that he faced significant barriers in obtaining rights to the material held in Italian archives. “It is a complete frustration trying to gain the rights to the footage they shot of my people,” he remarked, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by African filmmakers in accessing historical records.
Official Recognition and Future Aspirations
At the Berlinale, Gerima was honored with the Berlinale Camera for his career achievements, a recognition of his impactful storytelling that addresses themes of oppression and resistance. Berlinale head Tricia Tuttle remarked on the significance of Gerima's work, stating, “Haile Gerima’s works bear witness to histories marked by oppression, resistance, and the unfinished work of decolonisation.” Moving forward, Gerima aims to foster public discussions about film archives and advocate for improved access for African filmmakers, asserting, “We have the right to the archive.”
Criticism and Opposition
While Gerima's film has been celebrated for its ambitious scope and historical significance, some critics may question the effectiveness of using archival footage from a colonial perspective. The challenge of reconciling these images with the realities of Ethiopian history remains a contentious issue within the discourse surrounding post-colonial narratives.
Conclusion
*Black Lions – Roman Wolves* serves as a critical exploration of Italy's colonial past and its implications for contemporary narratives. Gerima's dedication to reclaiming history through film not only sheds light on Ethiopia's struggles but also calls for a broader conversation about the rights of filmmakers to access and reinterpret historical archives. The film's debut at Berlinale underscores its relevance in today's discussions on decolonization and representation in cinema.
