The documentary Gladius premiered last night at the Destil Creative Hub, offering a powerful and unsettling narrative about the 1945 Special Trial and the onset of communist terror in Albania. The film, directed by Viron Roboçi and Besmira Pelushaj, presents a fresh perspective on one of the darkest episodes in Albania’s post-war history. For the documentary’s creation, the authors drew upon archival materials from the Albanian Telegraphic Agency, adding depth to the historical recount.

The documentary’s subtitle, “The (Non) Special Trial,” explores the harrowing reality of a politically orchestrated process known as the “Special Trial,” held in Tirana immediately following the end of World War II. This trial, which sought to eliminate political opposition, is compared to ancient Roman gladiatorial contests. Gladius draws a powerful parallel between the staged violence of these trials and the fate of 60 intellectuals condemned during this period—intended as a spectacle of brutality to eliminate influential figures and instill fear in the remaining political elite, activists, and any person of influence.

By weaving together archival footage, authentic documentary images, and artistic re-enactments, Gladius offers a poignant portrayal of the swift and unjust process that led to the execution of 17 individuals and a total of 715 years of prison sentences for others. Notably, none of the 17 executed have a known grave to this day.

The documentary was produced with the support of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation (KAS Albania) in collaboration with the United Rights Foundation, highlighting the ongoing struggle for truth and justice regarding this brutal chapter in Albania’s history.

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