Synopsis
Film on the legacy of Friedrich Engels and the discussion of culture of memory. Which forms or symbols of collective memory are significant for us today? The film counteracts an idealization that bores or makes us forget: self-ironic, critical, dancing. [72 Berlinale, efm]A dance film project thematically embracing heritage and memory – on the occasion of the 200th birthday of Friedrich Engels.
The larger-than-life bronze statue by Chinese artist Zeng Chenggang depicts the German social theorist, textile entrepreneur and revolutionary Friedrich Engels. He stands on a 40cm high pedestal, weighing 868 kg, in Wuppertal, Germany. This sculptural donation by the People’s Republic of China has triggered many heated discussions. Which forms and symbols of collective memory are significant for us today? Why should we still remember Engels? This dance film aims to shine a light on Engels, his historically relevant ideas and to counteract an idealization that bores or leads to oblivion: questioning, critical thinking, dancing.
Interviews and atmospheric scenes are combined and reinforced by dance sequences in this film. (Tanja Liedtke Foundation)