Fifty years ago, in 1974, Rainer Werner Fassbinder released Ali: Fear Eats the Soul—a powerful story about racism, prejudice, and social exclusion. The relationship between Emmi, an older German cleaning woman, and Ali, a young guest worker from Morocco, reveals the impact of societal biases on their lives. Even half a century later, the film’s themes remain deeply relevant, as exclusion, xenophobia, and the exploitation of fear continue to shape societies.
In 1974, the world was marked by geopolitical tensions: the aftermath of the Yom Kippur War in Israel and Syria, Turkey’s invasion of Cyprus, and political instability in Afghanistan created a fragile global landscape, pushing many to flee. Iran was seeking regional influence, while Lebanon teetered on the brink of civil war. These conflicts left lasting scars, many of which persist today, contributing to migration flows and refugee experiences that present ongoing challenges to society.
In a modern adaptation of Ali: Fear Eats the Soul, we might see a young refugee from Syria or Afghanistan grappling with the fear of deportation and discrimination in Germany. The rhetoric of far-right and populist parties, which stokes xenophobia and amplifies societal fears, would mirror today’s social climate. Despite growing movements for diversity and inclusion, hate speech and exclusion remain harsh realities for many refugees.
What, then, has changed since 1974? On one hand, there is greater social awareness of issues like racism and discrimination. Legal frameworks, human rights organizations, and social movements have emerged to promote inclusion and equality, with increased protections and support services for refugees. However, new challenges have arisen. The digital age and the rise of social media have amplified both solidarity and hate speech, providing a platform for extremist voices. Populist parties in many countries have gained momentum, promoting anti-immigration agendas and exploiting fears to divide communities.
Moreover, the stories and struggles of guest workers—like Ali—who were invited to rebuild postwar economies, remain underrepresented. Their contributions have been crucial, yet their experiences are rarely acknowledged or integrated into broader societal memory. Fassbinder’s film, therefore, stands as a rare and vital piece of cultural history, giving voice to those whose narratives are often marginalized.
Fassbinder’s minimalist aesthetic enhances the film’s themes of isolation—long, static shots and empty spaces create an atmosphere of coldness that visually underscores societal exclusion. This aesthetic resonates today, as it exposes the often-hidden psychosocial consequences of racism and the pervasive fear many people endure daily.
Ali: Fear Eats the Soul challenges us to confront these enduring issues and work towards a more inclusive future. The question remains: Are we ready to stand up for solidarity and empathy in a world marked by both progress and persistent challenges, where too many voices still go unheard?
Ercan Carikci and Peter Kravanja, PhD
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