My Name Is Not Ali Poster

My Name Is Not Ali 2011

★ 5.85 votes98 min📅 2011-11-07

In 'My Name Is Not Ali (2011)', Viola Shafik embarks on a poignant journey to reconstruct the life story of El Hedi Ben Salem.

Director: Viola Shafik

Cast

El Hedi ben Salem
El Hedi ben Salem
Self (archive footage)
Rainer Werner Fassbinder
Rainer Werner Fassbinder
Self (archive footage)
Abd El-Kader Jarrary
Self (Ben Salem's Son)
Hafsia Mellaim
Self (Ben Salem's former wife)
Viola Shafik
Self (voice)
Renate Leiffer
Renate Leiffer
Self
Irm Hermann
Irm Hermann
Self
Karl Scheydt
Karl Scheydt
Self
Rudolf Waldemar Brem
Rudolf Waldemar Brem
Self
Hans Hirschmüller
Hans Hirschmüller
Self

Frequently Asked Questions

What is My Name Is Not Ali (2011) about?

The film is a poignant exploration of the life story of El Hedi Ben Salem, delving into the complexities of identity, cultural projection, and the human condition.

Who directed My Name Is Not Ali?

My Name Is Not Ali (2011) is directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Viola Shafik.

Who stars in My Name Is Not Ali?

The cast includes El Hedi ben Salem, Rainer Werner Fassbinder, Abd El-Kader Jarrary, and Hafsia Mellaim.

Is My Name Is Not Ali (2011) worth watching?

While the film may not appeal to all audiences, its thought-provoking themes and nuanced exploration of identity make it a compelling watch for those interested in documentary filmmaking and cultural studies.

How long is My Name Is Not Ali?

The runtime of My Name Is Not Ali (2011) is 98 minutes.

About My Name Is Not Ali (2011) — A Challenging Portrait of Identity and Culture.

In 'My Name Is Not Ali (2011)', Viola Shafik embarks on a poignant journey to reconstruct the life story of El Hedi Ben Salem. The film takes viewers on a captivating odyssey through Germany, France, and Tunisia, weaving together interviews with those who knew Salem and archival material. With sensitivity and insight, Shafik peels away the layers of a man who became an object of fascination for the Fassbinder group, yet remained unknown to them. A powerful examination of identity, cultural projection, and the human condition unfolds, challenging viewers to consider the complexities of the 'other.'

Through a no-frills approach, 'My Name Is Not Ali (2011)' strips away the mystique surrounding Salem's life, revealing the intricate web of relationships and experiences that defined him. Shafik's direction masterfully balances openness and naivety, allowing the interviewees to share their perspectives with unflinching honesty. As a result, the film becomes a nuanced exploration of the intersections between identity, culture, and the human experience.

Shot over 98 minutes, 'My Name Is Not Ali (2011)' is a thought-provoking documentary that invites viewers to reflect on their assumptions and biases. With its focus on the enigmatic El Hedi Ben Salem, the film poses essential questions about the nature of identity and the power of storytelling.