Film Lens
Imperfect Journey is a 1994 Ethiopian documentary film directed by Haile Gerima. The film is commissioned by the BBC and focuses on the recovery of the Ethiopian people following the political repression known as the 'red terror' under the military junta led by Mengistu Haile Mariam. Gerima travels to Ethiopia with journalist Ryszard Kapuściński, engaging with individuals from various social strata to discuss their experiences and perspectives on the political climate.
The film questions the direction of the new government and the people's role in establishing institutions that support their liberation. Gerima reflects on the title, stating it signifies incompleteness, as the film was made under challenging political and cultural circumstances. It addresses the impact of a dysfunctional and underdeveloped reality on the future of Ethiopian youth.
Why Watch
- •Meet Ethiopian citizens discussing their past.
- •Find out about the 'red terror' era.
- •See Haile Gerima's unique filmmaking style.
Did You Know
•The film was directed by Haile Gerima in 1994.
•Ryszard Kapuściński appears alongside Haile Gerima in the film.
•The film has a duration of 88 minutes.
•It was produced in three countries: Italy, Ethiopia, and the United States.
Perfect For
Ethiopian historyPolitical documentariesHaile Gerima fans