Palimpsest of the Africa Museum (film)
editPalimpsest of the Africa Museum is a documentary film directed by Matthias De Groof, which highlights the evacuation and renovation process of the Royal Museum for Central Africa (RMCA).[1]
| Palimpsest of the Africa Museum | |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Matthias De Groof |
| Written by | Matthias De Groof |
| Produced by | Daniel De Valck |
| Narrated by | Jean Bofane |
| Cinematography | Matthias De Groof |
| Edited by | Sebastien Demeffe |
| Music by | Ernst Reijseger |
Production companies | Cobra Films, Atelier Graphoui |
Running time | 69 minutes |
| Country | Belgium |
| Languages | French, Dutch, (Dutch subtitles) |
Plot
editIn 2013, the Royal Museum for Central Africa closed its doors for renovations. Besides physical improvements to the building and museum displays, the renovation aimed to align the museum's spirit with contemporary values. Within COMRAF, an advisory council, the process of decolonisation led to intense debates.[2]
While the statue of Leopold II was dismantled, his spirit continued to haunt the museum's corridors and halls. The renovation provided an opportunity to redefine the existence and mission of the Museum of Central Africa in a modern context. Traditional artefacts, stuffed animals and dusty objects gave way to a more comprehensive, modern view of Africa.[2]
The museum called on the expertise of professionals and engaged in discussions with representatives of African organisations united under the structure of COMRAF. Exhibiting minerals from Congolese soil now required more than just a scientific explanation; it forced reflection on the horrific conditions under which these resources were mined and their disruptive impact on Congolese society.[2]
Production
editPalimpsest of the Africa Museum is a Belgian film produced by two production companies, Cobra-Films and Atelier Graphoui.[3] Funding for the film was provided by the Flemish Audiovisual Fund. Production was completed on 15 May 2019.[3]
Awards
editThe film was awarded a Silver FILAF at the Festival international du livre d'art et du film.[4]
Trivia
editThe film's voice-over was recorded by Congolese writer Jean Bofane.
References
edit- ^ Groof, Matthias De; Groof, Matthias de; Groof, Matthias de (2019-01-01), Palimpsest of the Africa Museum (Documentary), Cobra Films, retrieved 2024-05-03
- ^ a b c "Palimpsest | DOCVILLE - Documentaire Filmfestival Leuven 20.03 t/m 28.03.24". www.docville.be. Retrieved 2024-05-03.
- ^ a b Palimpsest of the Africa Museum. 2019. Retrieved 2024-05-03 – via www.flandersimage.com.
- ^ "FILAF 2020". filaf (in French). Retrieved 2024-05-03.