photo by Andreas Johnsen, courtesy of International Film Circuit.
Danish filmmaker Andreas Johnsen’s new documentary on Ai Weiwei, “The Fake Case” opened yesterday in New York City. The film documents the year spent under house arrest. Ai Weiwei, the world’s most famous Chinese artist, has always chosen the struggle for human rights over a life of privilege, a choice that has severe consequences when you live in China.
In April 2011 he was suddenly kidnapped by the Chinese authorities and held in isolation at a secret location, denied all contact with the outside world and refused access to a lawyer. When he was released 81 days later, it was only to a year of house arrest under constant surveillance, his every move monitored by the state. 18 cameras monitor his studio and home. Police agents follow his every move, and heavy restrictions from the Chinese authorities weigh heavily on him. In October 2011, he is named the world’s most powerful artist by ArtReview.
This film follows Ai Weiwei right after his release. He is hit with a lawsuit, which he soon names ‘The Fake Case’, referring to the obvious false reasons behind the accusations, and referencing in a clever double entendre, the name of his company. After his release Ai Weiwei is shaken, marked by the pressure, his detention and the state’s Kafka-like opacity. But slowly he regains his strength and courage, ready to face his opponents even though their powers are mighty.
“Ai Weiwei The Fake Case” – TRAILER – English subtitles from Rosforth on Vimeo.
Jennifer Woods’ recent review for Complex sums it up thusly: Ultimately, Ai Weiwei: The Fake Case is a statement on the impact that even a single voice can have and the importance of art in carrying that message forward. “If I don’t show my voice—if I don’t act as I believe—then I think I’m dead already,” Ai concludes. “This kind of expression is not only necessary for artists, but for any being to show they’re alive, they have to speak out. Especially to the kind of danger that can really affect everyone.”
More information over at http://thefakecase.com