Africa Blood & Guts is a 1970 documentary film by Italian director Gualtiero Jacopetti that explores the political and social turbulence in post-colonial Africa during the early 1970s. The film is considered to be a sequel to Jacopetti's previous film, Mondo Cane, which was a highly controversial and influential pseudo-documentary that examined bizarre cultural practices and customs from around the world.
The opening of Africa Blood & Guts features a quote by French writer Victor Hugo: "The worst thing about slavery is that it teaches one to be a slave." This quote sets the tone for the film as Jacopetti sets out to highlight the injustices and inequalities that have arisen in Africa in the wake of colonialism.
Throughout the film, Jacopetti juxtaposes footage of poverty, disease, and violence with images of opulence and decadence, highlighting the stark contrasts that exist in Africa. Scenes of starving children, armed conflicts, and corrupt politicians are intercut with shots of lavish parties, exotic wildlife, and Western tourists sunbathing on the beaches.
The film is also notable for its graphic depictions of violence, including footage of brutal animal hunts, violent tribal rituals, and graphic scenes of war and genocide. Some of the most harrowing scenes in the film include footage of executions, torture, and the aftermath of bombings and massacres.
The film is structured around a loose narrative that follows an Italian journalist named Giorgio who travels to Africa to investigate the situation on the ground. Through his encounters with locals and politicians, Giorgio learns about the political, economic, and social challenges facing Africa as it tries to overcome its legacy of colonialism.
One of the major themes of the film is the struggle for independence and self-determination in Africa. Jacopetti contrasts images of African leaders such as Julius Nyerere and Jomo Kenyatta with footage of European leaders such as Winston Churchill, emphasizing the power dynamics that still exist between Africa and the West.
Another theme of the film is the impact of racism and prejudice in Africa. Jacopetti interviews a group of white South Africans who defend the apartheid system and deny that racism is a problem in their country. He also highlights the experiences of black Africans who face discrimination, violence, and exploitation at the hands of white settlers and colonial powers.
Although Africa Blood & Guts has been criticized for its graphic depictions of violence and its sensationalist approach to its subject matter, it is also recognized as an important work of social commentary that has influenced subsequent documentaries and films about Africa. The film's power lies in its unflinching depiction of the harsh realities of life in post-colonial Africa, and its exploration of the political, social, and economic factors that have shaped the continent.
Overall, Africa Blood & Guts is a challenging and controversial film that offers a raw and uncompromising look at the struggles and triumphs of Africa in the wake of colonialism. It is a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges that the continent faces today, and a call to action to address the issues of poverty, inequality, and injustice that still exist in many parts of Africa.
Africa Blood & Guts is a 1966 documentary with a runtime of 2 hours and 8 minutes.
