The (Under)development Complex

By intertwining the intellectual foundations laid by Walter Rodney with the exhibition's thought-provoking exploration, "The (Under)development Complex" provides a comprehensive and nuanced examination of the subject. It strives to educate and inspire viewers to question existing power structures, advocate for inclusive development paradigms, and contribute to the unraveling of the intricate web of underdevelopment.

  • Matthew Hansen
    Director
  • Matthew Hansen
    Producer
  • Daniellis Hernandez Calderon
    Producer
    Unfinished Piece For Martha Ndumbe
  • Bonaventure Soh Bejeng Ndikung
    Key Cast
  • Lynhan Balatbat-Helbock
    Key Cast
  • Hubert Gromny
    Key Cast
  • Dóra Dömötör-Nagy
    Contributors
  • Anna Jäger
    Contributors
  • Mokia Laisin
    Contributors
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Genres:
    Socio-political
  • Runtime:
    42 minutes 31 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    June 26, 2023
  • Production Budget:
    4,221 EUR
  • Country of Origin:
    Ghana
  • Country of Filming:
    Germany
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Black & White and Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
Director Biography - Matthew Hansen

Matthew Hansen is a versatile professional with a strong background in IT and a deep passion for photography and filmmaking as artistic pursuits. With expertise in various technical domains, he has excelled in the IT industry, while simultaneously exploring his creative side as a cultural worker. Through his artistic practice, he actively engages in photography and filmmaking, capturing captivating moments and telling compelling stories. Additionally, Matthew's artistic pursuits extend to curating and exhibition production, where he actively contributes to the arts community, fostering inclusivity and creativity. His unique combination of technical proficiency and artistic vision allows him to create impactful work that resonates with audiences.

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Director Statement

In today's interconnected world, the theme of underdevelopment continues to be a pressing issue that affects communities and societies on a global scale. As a filmmaker, I am fascinated by the intricacies of human experiences and the underlying causes that contribute to societal disparities. With my latest project, I aim to explore and unravel the underdevelopment complex, shedding light on the multifaceted factors that still perpetuate this cycle.

Through this film, I intend to delve deep into the roots of underdevelopment, challenging the conventional narratives and simplistic explanations that often overshadow the complexity of the issue. My goal is to present a nuanced portrayal of underdevelopment that goes beyond mere economic indicators and uncovers the intricate web of social, political, and historical factors that contribute to its persistence.

Unraveling the underdevelopment complex requires a holistic approach that considers the interplay of various elements. I aim to bring together diverse voices and perspectives, featuring interviews with experts, community leaders, and individuals directly impacted by underdevelopment. By doing so, I hope to create a tapestry of narratives that reflect the experiences, struggles, and aspirations of those living in underdeveloped regions.

One crucial aspect of this film will be to challenge the notion of underdevelopment as a singular and static state. Instead, I aim to showcase the dynamic nature of underdevelopment and how it evolves over time. By examining the historical context and the legacy of colonialism, exploitation, and systemic inequalities, I seek to highlight how these factors shape the present and hinder progress.

Unraveling the underdevelopment complex is not an easy task, and this film does not pretend to offer simple solutions or quick fixes. Rather, it aims to ignite conversations, inspire collective reflection, and ultimately, motivate action. By bringing awareness to the complexities of underdevelopment, I hope to foster a sense of responsibility and solidarity among viewers, urging them to engage in meaningful dialogue and contribute to positive change.

As a filmmaker, I am committed to using the power of storytelling to amplify marginalized voices and shed light on social issues that are often overlooked. The (Under)development Complex is a talking head documentary that aims to challenge preconceived notions, spark empathy, and inspire a renewed commitment to addressing the underlying causes of underdevelopment.

Through this film, I aspire to contribute to a broader movement towards social justice, equity, and sustainable development. By unraveling the underdevelopment complex, we can strive for a future where all communities have access to the resources, opportunities, and agency they need to thrive.