Asger Leth is the Danish-born director of the documentary film “Ghosts of Cité Soleil”, which tells the story of two members of the Chimères street gang in Haiti. Out in cinemas now.
1 Does art make a difference?
Art is the highest form of communication. Without art we would be monkeys. It reminds us that there is more to us than the bitter fight of today and the sadness of tomorrow.
2 Should politics and art mix?
I am not afraid of art that has politics, but personally I don’t want to make films that would force me to be in one camp or the other.
I want to point out what unites us and put a spotlight on what divides us. But mostly I am interested in studying the human being. I think art can be a bridge, guiding us to a higher sphere, above muddy politics.
3 Is your work for the many or for the few?
My work is for as many as possible. I don’t believe in hidden art. Art exists in the confrontation with an audience. If you have something to say, why not say it to as many as possible while staying true to the work? That’s the trick, especially for film-makers. It’s an expensive canvas. We need to get an audience while keeping the vision.
4 If you were world leader, what would be your first law?
That world leaders should pay for the first bomb out of their own pocket.
5 Who would be your top advisers?
Those most likely to criticise me. Those most likely to tear my arguments apart. Those most likely to go public with my dirty secrets.
6 What, if anything, would you censor?
Absolutely nothing. I believe in freedom of speech – with responsibility. Meaning I can say what I want, but must face the music in a courtroom if a law were broken by my word. That’s not censorship, but accountability.
7 If you had to banish one public figure, who would it be?
Oh . . . that would be too politically incorrect to say. I choose to censor myself. See? I am a hypocrite. I should not be a world leader.
8 What are the rules that you live by?
Don’t believe the hype. Be honest. Treat people right. Make a difference.
9 Do you love your country?
In this blip of time, it’s better than most. I try to remind myself I am one of the lucky ones.
10 Are we all doomed?
Yes.
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