How diversity works in the cinema is often as obvious as it is well-defined. Since Clashing Differences, I also know how to use the term token to describe it. Watching critical films as a white cis man is not only necessary but also exciting, but unfortunately there are surprisingly few opportunities to do so.

Kinoleinwand mit Gästen am Mehringplatz Berlin

Augure / Omen, the new film by Baloji about the journey of a mixed Belgian couple to a fictitious homeland in Africa was little announced and was practically unseen even in a big city like Berlin. Barbie was the main thing – controversially discussed as feminist or pinkwashing product placement (see review by taz) – or simple comedies are shown. Of course, even Qu`est-ce qu`on a fait au bon Dieu (Serial Bad Weddings) is a little bit ciritical, but it’s mostly a comedy in the tradition of Louis de Funès as Rabbi Jacob.

Medusa Deluxe is out of the ordinary in several respects and should definitely be watched in the original language to appreciate the slang and puns. Despite all the blatant clichés, there are some role models to be admired here beyond the usual mainstream fashion and design circus.

But back to critical reviews. Merle Grimme has done a few things differently with Clashing Differences, not least the actors themselves were able to help develop their roles and dialog, and in addition they all speak a personal monologue directly to the audience to say what is apparently not possible or desired in the specific situation. I hope I don’t appear in the movie myself, but maybe I do. There are no men to be seen, apart from the apparently right-wing extremist cab driver and his friends. So I have to ask myself whether I see myself more in the committed old do-gooders or in the East German Paula, who often finds herself caught between two stools, desperately trying to please everyone and repeatedly putting her foot in it. In her monologue, she describes her own despair in a coy and whispering manner, as she actually has no right to complain because she seems to be doing so well. “People can be oppressors and oppressed at the same time” is aptly remarked elsewhere.

Clashing Differences invites us to laugh and learn and makes us think with guilty world-weariness about what we can do as individuals to make this world a better, fairer and more loving place. First of all: watch and listen and be sure to see this great movie!

Trailer:

Poster image: Berlin premiere in the open air pop up cinema at Mehringplatz in July 2023