You Hide Me

Synopsis

Dramatisation of a visit to the British Museum by two Africans who discover African art, specifically Benin bronzes, hidden in the basement. An exposé of the policies of European colonial regimes which, in establishing their rule, attempted to wipe out all traces of African civilisation, religion, language and art. Argues that materials collected in Africa and often hidden in the basements of European museums have been used against Africans as well as black people in the Caribbean, Europe and the USA, making them look down on a rich cultural heritage.

Language

English

Country

Great Britain

Medium

Film; Film. 16mm. sd. b&w. 25 min.

Technical information

Black-and-white / Sound

Year of production

1972

Availability

OUT OF DISTRIBUTION

Uses

African art classes, or general classes dealing with African nationalism. Successful use of the film will depend on discussion related to it as the film does not stand on its own for a non-African audience.*

Subjects

Archaeology; Art

Keywords

art - African; Benin art; colonial history; museums

Credits

Producer

Kwate Nee Owoo

Distribution Formats

Type

Film

Format

16mm

Production Company

Name

Ifriqiah Films

Distributor

Name

Metro Tartan Distribution

Phone

020 7494 1400

Fax

020 7439 1922

Address

3rd Floor, Atlantic House
5 Wardour Street
London W1V 3HE

Notes

Formerly: The Other Cinema