It is often easier to focus on the headlines, statistics, and rhetoric about immigrants than on the people themselves.  The Swiss nomination for Best Foreign Documentary, Eldorado makes the global phenomenon of thousands of people fleeing to Europe real and tangible through graphic footage of refugee rescues and gripping interviews with asylum seekers.  In addition, Swiss director Markus Imhoof tells a very personal story — his questions about humanity and social responsibility in today’s world lead him back to his childhood and to his deep connection with the Italian refugee child Giovanna who was helped by his family during World War II.  An important and powerful look at the human cost of immigration crisis, this is a haunting film that lifts the curtain on what is currently happening. Viewer Discretion advised due to disturbing stories and images.

This program is made possible by the Bates College Department of Rhetoric, Film, and Screen Studies.

“A fresh perspective that makes its political point with understated anger.” Variety

“A sombre, unflinching and personal film.’ The Guardian

“The personal touchstone ensures that (Imhoof’s)  film retains a character of its own that marks it out from others on the same subject.” Eye for Film

FILM DETAILS

Documentary / Dir: Marcus Imhoof / 2018 / Swtizerland / Various languages w Eng ST / 90 min

festivals

Berlin International Film Festival 2018, DocAviv Film Festival 2018, Hong Kong International Film Festival 2018

festival calendar