|
The picture of three paunchy, worn out briefcases, leaning against the side of the desk, is a symbol for the long and industrious life that Alexandre André led. Without any of those disturbing image manipulations, Marie Andre shows her ninety year old uncle recalling his past. He tells of his youth in Cuesmes-les-Mons where the misery of the workers would serve as a source of inspiration for his later activities. Even now he speaks with emotion of his mother and of his father who had to plod away in the mines. He was involved with trade union activities from an early age. He set up a co-operative printing shop, but then got caught up in the administration of Henegouwen. Firstly as a socialist representative, and later as chairman, he was involved in the education and art policies of his beloved province where he actively promoted tourism. At a national level, he saw the setting up of the RTBF and the INSAS (film institute) and the social insurance system. After 35 minutes, he stops, "Voila, c'etait mon histoire" and thanks the film crew. In a lovely epilogue, his wife gives him an encouraging pat, "you did that very nicely". How true!
–
Erik Daams
|
Camera: Luc Bériot, Sound: Paul Denoy, With: Alexandre André, Production: Paralleles Productions, Wallonie Image Production
|
|
1 9 9 0 
