Exil

Followed by a talk and a reading with Elona Beqiraj in German

Exil, the latest film by Visar Morina, tells the story of Xhafer, a Kosovar pharmaceutical engineer who has built a life with his German wife and children in Germany. Though he can't find concrete evidence to support his feelings, he begins to feel increasingly discriminated against and harassed at work. This uncertainty leads to a growing paranoia, with Xhafer interpreting every gesture and word from his colleagues as an attack on his identity as a foreigner.

Intentionally leaving questions unanswered, Morina explores the fine line between everyday racism and Xhafer's doubts, examining the subtle racism that lies behind liberal society. By eschewing clear resolutions, the audience is forced to reflect on the complexity of identity and alienation. (EB)

Elona Beqiraj, based in Berlin, is an author and political educator who explores themes of right-wing violence and belonging in Germany. Her 2019 poetry collection und wir kamen jeden sommer delves into memory and identity and complements her work on inclusive remembrance culture.