The Rotterdam Film Festival Sheds Light on a Fascinating Chapter in European History
The Rotterdam film festival is gearing up to showcase a unique lesson in European history this weekend, delving into the intriguing story of Fiume, a city that saw a tug-of-war between Italy and what would later become Yugoslavia after World War I and the fall of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Known today as Rijeka in Croatia, Fiume became the center of a power struggle following the Paris Peace Conference, with conflicting claims from Italy and the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes.
The situation escalated in 1919 when Italian nationalists, led by the renowned poet, aristocrat, and army officer Gabriele D’Annunzio, occupied the city for 16 months. The Italian government, reluctant to annex Fiume and violate international agreements, allowed D’Annunzio and his followers to establish the Italian Regency of Carnaro.
Filmmaker Igor Bezinović, known for “A Brief Excursion,” revisits this tumultuous period in Fiume’s history through his new film, “Fiume o morte!” (Rijeka or Death!), blending dramatic re-enactments, historical footage, and documentary elements to capture the essence of the era. The movie premieres at the Tiger Competition of the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) on Sunday.
D’Annunzio, though not widely recognized globally, left a lasting impact on Fiume and was accorded a state funeral by Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini. His actions, underscored by ultranationalist sentiments, are scrutinized in “Fiume o morte!” which challenges viewers to reflect on how extremist ideologies of the past continue to influence contemporary society.
Bezinović’s approach to the film, combining storytelling with facts in an engaging manner, aims to make history more accessible and engaging for audiences, drawing parallels between past events and present-day political landscapes. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives, with different individuals portraying D’Annunzio and serving as narrators, adding layers of complexity to the story.
The film also explores D’Annunzio’s complex relationship with Mussolini, shedding light on the blurred lines between nationalism, imperialism, and fascism. Bezinović navigates through historical accounts and personal anecdotes, painting a vivid picture of a brief yet vibrant period in Fiume’s history.
Amidst tales of military occupation and political intrigue, Bezinović incorporates elements of fun and surrealism, debunking myths surrounding Fiume’s supposed utopian image. Through the lens of history, the filmmaker invites audiences to engage with the past in a nuanced and thought-provoking manner.
With a keen eye for detail, Bezinović weaves together historical accuracy with creative storytelling, encapsulating the spirit of Fiume’s past while offering a fresh perspective on a lesser-known chapter in European history. As the film unfolds, viewers are encouraged to delve deeper into the complexities of the past and appreciate the multifaceted nature of historical narratives.
In “Fiume o morte!”, Bezinović’s passion for his city and its history shines through, underscoring the film’s significance as a cultural artifact and a means of preserving and sharing local stories for future generations. By blending fact and fiction, Bezinović crafts a compelling narrative that challenges perceptions and invites audiences to ponder the enduring relevance of history in shaping our understanding of the world.
As the credits roll, Bezinović’s ultimate goal becomes clear: to create a lasting legacy that transcends cinematic boundaries, ensuring that Fiume’s story continues to resonate with audiences for years to come. Through his meticulous storytelling and innovative approach, Bezinović invites viewers on a journey through time, where history, myth, and reality intersect to create a tapestry of narratives that captivate and inspire.