Filmmaker Edgar Hagen Explores Refugee Crisis in New Documentary The Roots of Madness
Swiss filmmaker Edgar Hagen’s latest documentary, The Roots of Madness, delves into the complex issue of migration and the rise of xenophobia in Europe. The film seeks to answer a pressing question: Why do so many individuals become refugees? This exploration comes amid ongoing political debates surrounding migration and its implications for society.
A Journey Through Conflict Zones
Hagen’s documentary examines the long-term effects of Western intervention in the Middle East. He collaborates with veteran German journalist Ulrich Tilgner, who has reported from various war zones and crisis areas for German and Swiss media. Together, they embark on a farewell journey to reconnect with ordinary people, former contacts, and past interview subjects in countries such as Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, aiming to understand the aftermath of previous conflicts.
The Roots of Madness is set to premiere at the 57th edition of the Swiss documentary festival, Visions du Réel, in Nyon, near Geneva, on April 19. The film is positioned within the national competition, highlighting its significance in contemporary discourse.
The Impact of Migration on Society
In 2015, millions of refugees, primarily from the Middle East, entered Europe, inadvertently fueling a surge in xenophobic extremism. The documentary combines archival footage and poignant testimonies to create a compelling narrative that balances outrage with sensitivity. It critically examines the promises made by Western nations regarding “liberation” and “democracy,” while also exploring the broader implications of these interventions in regions like Niger, Greece, and Serbia.
The film’s production team includes Hagen and Mathias Hefel from Vollbild Film GmbH, with cinematography by Börres Weiffenbach and editing by Christian Büttiker and Audrey Maurion.
A Personal Statement on Current Events
Hagen emphasizes the personal nature of this project, stating that it is crucial to release the film during a time when the values of Western democracies are under threat. He believes that many in the West perceive migrants and refugees as the root cause of societal divisions, when in reality, the underlying issues are more complex. He asserts that understanding the experiences of these individuals is essential for combating rising racism and political extremism.
The filmmaker expresses a desire to capture authentic images and voices from conflict zones, juxtaposing them with Western values and political decisions. He aims to illuminate the ongoing humanitarian crises faced by migrants at Europe’s fortified borders.
Seeking Understanding Through Empathy
Hagen reflects on his motivations for creating the film, noting a sense of confusion regarding societal reactions to migration. He observes that as migration became a significant topic, many societies began to close themselves off, erecting barriers that metaphorically transformed into prisons. He stresses the importance of understanding the root causes of migration by visiting the places from which people flee.
The collaboration with Tilgner was driven by a shared focus on the human aspect of the crisis, moving beyond political narratives to understand the feelings and experiences of those affected by war. This approach informed the film’s title, which symbolizes the need to confront the underlying conflicts that compel millions to leave their homes.
Addressing Radicalism and Future Implications
The documentary also addresses the rise of groups like the Taliban in Afghanistan, focusing on the West’s role in fostering radicalism. Hagen discusses the recent war in Iran, highlighting a shift in perception regarding U.S. foreign policy. He notes that past justifications for military interventions, such as promoting peace and democracy, have been replaced by a lack of accountability and justification.
Hagen aims to provoke thought about the future, urging audiences to consider the implications of their values and the direction in which society is heading. He emphasizes the need for dialogue around these issues, advocating for new approaches to dealing with complex geopolitical challenges.
Encouraging Healthy Debate
Hagen hopes that The Roots of Madness will stimulate meaningful discussions about migration and its causes. He believes it is essential to maintain established dialogues while also exploring innovative ways to address the challenges posed by radicalism. He argues that simply resorting to violence is counterproductive and perpetuates the cycle of conflict.
As reported by www.hollywoodreporter.com, Hagen’s commitment to fostering understanding and empathy is evident throughout the film, as he seeks to bridge the gap between conflicting narratives and promote a more nuanced understanding of the refugee crisis.
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Published on 2026-04-16 17:15:00 • By FAME Delivered News Desk