(in German, English, and Twi with English subtitles, discussion in English)

Part of the film series BLACK EYES ON BLACK BODIES

Sam and his mother Rita are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their old friend Gifty and her son Kwesi. With their arrival, their lives begin to change: Sam develops feelings for Kwesi, and suddenly he’s confronted with his German-Ghanaian identity in a new way. But their budding connection is threatened by the uncertain residency status of Kwesi and Gifty. Time is running out.

Fleeting touches and shy glances: this film stands out for its special tenderness and unique atmospheric density. I Was Never Really Here is a poetic short film about a special encounter between two teenagers and their exploration of identity, heritage, and sexuality – a deeply moving love story.

Gabriel B. Arrahnio was born in Cameroon and immigrated to Germany with his family at the age of 13. After various internships at film production companies, he was hired by the renowned advertising agency Jung von Matt as their first in-house director. Gabriel tells stories that often have no place in commercial cinema. He focuses on the lives of queer people and their courageous journey toward self-love and acceptance.

For the festival BLACK BERLIN BLACK – United Polyphonic (2023), filmmaker Mona Okulla Obua curated the film series BLACK EYES ON BLACK BODIES. After films like Blues for Mrs. by Anton Juan, The Homes We Carry by Brenda Akele Jorde, and Black Joy by Rafik Opti, the series continues – with How to Tell Gunshots from Fireworks by Philipp Groth and Tsellot Melesse, and I Was Never Really Here by Gabriel B. Arrahnio.