Black Europe Film Festival

Opening Night Film: Edelweiss

Thursday, January 30 • Reception at 6:30pm • Screening at 7:30pm • Tickets: $10 General (+ $2 online service fee), $8 Members (no fee), $5 Students (door)

This special Black Europe Film Festival Opening Night screening is followed by a Q&A with the director of the film, Anna Gaberscik, moderated by Dr. Jamele Watkins, Assistant Professor of German, Nordic, Slavic & Dutch at the University of Minnesota.

ABOUT THE FILM

US Premiere. Edelweiss (2023) is a performative documentary about the harrowing realities of Black people living in Europe, Austria specifically. It takes its title from the theme song of The Sound of Music and explores what it means for Black bodies to occupy the iconic landscapes celebrated in the film. The movie is a frank depiction of the perspectives of many Black people and people of color who have varying connections to Austria—some who call it home, some who have made it their home, and others who would never call it home.

Edelweiss was made to make Black people and people of color in Austria and beyond feel seen, empowered, and validated in the complexities of their experiences, especially in predominantly white societies. To white audiences, Edelweiss should be a wake-up call—a call to action. The film puts a mirror up to a society that lives to sweep things under the rug. Edelweiss is a loud declaration of existence and presence. It is an active challenge and demand.

ABOUT THE PRESENTERS

Anna Gaberscik is an Austrian filmmaker and visual artist whose work explores themes of identity, belonging, and the lived experiences of marginalized communities in Europe. Her films often blend documentary and performative elements to challenge dominant narratives and bring visibility to underrepresented voices.

Dr. Jamele Watkins is a scholar of race and migration studies with a focus on Black diasporic experiences in German-speaking Europe. Her research and teaching explore intersections of literature, film, and cultural studies, with an emphasis on issues of identity and resistance.

ABOUT - BLACK EUROPE FILM FESTIVAL

The Black Europe Film Festival of Minneapolis/St. Paul is a groundbreaking celebration of Afro-European cinema, debuting in the Twin Cities from January 30 to February 2, 2025. Rooted in community collaboration and anti-racist organizing, BEFF MSP brings you a dynamic lineup of documentaries, fiction films, and shorts by Europe’s most acclaimed Afro-descendant filmmakers. This festival offers a space for artists to showcase their work and foster connections across the global Black diaspora and the international film community. At its core, BEFF MSP recognizes the intertwined legacies of racism, colonialism, and displacement while celebrating the vibrancy, creativity, and resilience of Black filmmakers. These artists challenge stereotypes, redefine narratives, and envision worlds beyond the limits imposed by whiteness, amplifying an authentic vision of Black Europe and Black Europeans. The festival experience is enriched by masterclasses, filmmaker encounters, workshops, lectures, and artist residencies, creating opportunities for learning, connection, and joy. Join us to celebrate the power of storytelling and the boundless creativity of Afro-European cinema while engaging diverse audiences, communities, and youth.