Exploring the Historical Significance of "Fiume o Morte!"

"Fiume o Morte!" is an experimental documentary directed by Igor Bezinovic that delves into a pivotal period in the history of Rijeka, Croatia, specifically from September 1919 to December 1920. During this time, the city, known as Fiume in Italian, was under the rule of Gabriele D’Annunzio, an Italian poet who assumed dictatorial control. The film examines the complexities of this era, highlighting the city's shifting national allegiances and the impact of D’Annunzio's governance, which foreshadowed the rise of Benito Mussolini.

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Rijeka has a tumultuous history, having belonged to multiple nations throughout the 20th century. The documentary emphasizes the significance of D’Annunzio's brief rule, which is often overshadowed in contemporary discussions. The film's narrative is enriched by the use of nonactors from the region, who reenact historical events, thereby bridging the gap between past and present. This approach not only revives the memory of D’Annunzio's reign but also reflects on the local dialect, Fiumano, which has seen a decline in usage.

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Bezinovic employs a unique artistic style that combines reenactments with documentary evidence. The film features a rotating cast of actors portraying D’Annunzio, each bringing their own backgrounds to the role, which adds depth to the character's portrayal. The documentary also highlights the absence of visual records from significant events, such as the plebiscite in December 1919, where soldiers reportedly seized polling stations, emphasizing the elusiveness of historical documentation.

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While the film has been praised for its innovative approach to storytelling, some critics may argue that the reenactment style, though creative, may not be as groundbreaking as it once was. Additionally, the contemporary residents of Rijeka, as noted in the film, exhibit a limited understanding of D’Annunzio's legacy, which raises questions about the effectiveness of historical memory in shaping current identities.

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The documentary has received attention for its artistic merit and historical relevance. Bezinovic's method of using local participants to reenact history has been described as a "heady, creative way to excavate layers of buried history." This approach invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of national identity and the significance of local history.

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• “The re-enactment approach may not be as novel as it once was, but it’s still a heady, creative way to excavate layers of buried history in a location that has more than its share.” — Igor Bezinovic, Director

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• “Judging from interviews early in the film, many contemporary residents of Rijeka have only a faint sense of D’Annunzio and the area’s history in the grip of a forerunner of Benito Mussolini.” — Film Review

New York Times

"Fiume o Morte!" serves as a significant exploration of Rijeka's historical narrative, employing innovative storytelling techniques to engage with the complexities of identity and memory. The film not only sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of history but also prompts a reevaluation of how such histories are remembered and represented in contemporary society.

New York Times