The Anticolonial Cine Club
The Anticolonial CineClub is a student-led initiative at the English Department of the University of Münster, dedicated to examining multifaceted narratives of imperialism, colonialism, and neo/post/colonial cultures through the lens of cinema. As a praxis-based initiative grounded in post/colonial and decolonial theory, our mission is to curate a diverse and thought-provoking selection of films and documentaries that address these critical concerns, fostering inter-communal dialogue and stimulating discussions within our university community.
Established in May 2024, the CineClub has grown from a small group of students to a recognised platform for intellectual discourse and cultural exploration on campus. We believe that by contending with the legacies of colonialism and the ongoing struggles for decolonisation, we can contribute to a more inclusive understanding of our global society.
Our Vision
At the core of the Anticolonial CineClub is the belief that storytelling, particularly through film, is a powerful catalyst for systemic change. By curatinga carefully selected array of cinematic works, we aim to illuminate the historical and ongoing effects of imperialism and colonialism, showcase the diversity of neo/post/colonial cultures and thought, encourage critical thinking and open dialogue among students from all academic backgrounds, promote a deeper understanding of global issues and intercultural perspectives, and foster solidarity with marginalized communities and their struggles.
What We Do
The Anticolonial CineClub organises regular screenings of films and documentaries that align with our mission. Each screening is followed by a facilitated discussion, allowing participants to engage with the themes presented and share their insights. Our activities include:
- Weekly screenings of films, from classic works of anti-colonial cinema to contemporary documentaries and experimental pieces.
- Post-screening discussions, led by student moderators or guest speakers, these sessions provide a space for critical analysis and lively debate on the themes presented in the films.
- Collaborations with NGOs, academics and local independent cinemas for special events and discussions.
Past Collaborations
Since its inception, the Anticolonial CineClub has been actively engaging with local communities in Münster through various collaborations and events.
In June 2024, we collaborated with Maurice Carney, co-founder and Executive Director of the Friends of the Congo Collective and held a virtual Q&A session. The event centred the documentary Crisis in the Congo: Uncovering the Truth (2011), providing a platform for discussing the ongoing situation in the Congo and broader liberation struggles around the world. Carney's insights offered our audience a unique perspective on these complex issues, fostering a deeper understanding of global dynamics.
In October 2024, we partnered with Cinema & Kurbelkiste, an independent cinema house in Münster, to screen Dahomey (2024). This collaboration expanded our reach within the city and provided an opportunity for critical dialogue about the film's themes with the local audience.
Later that month, on October 30, 2024, we hosted another Q&A session with Nora Komposch, a PhD student and assistant at the University of Bern to discuss the documentary The Invisible: Modern Slavery in Europe (2023). The documentary highlights the working conditions of strawberry field workers and the berry industry in Spain. Komposch's expertise helped our audience grapple with the lived realities of modern forms of slavery and exploitation in Europe, emphasizing the ongoing need for awareness and action.
Upcoming Screenings
The Anticolonial CineClub hosts weekly film discussions during the lecture period, providing a regular opportunity for engagement and critical analysis.
To stay updated on our upcoming screenings and collaborations, you can follow us on Instagram at @anticolonialcineclub.