#None #Documentary Film #Te Pito o Te Henua #Rapa Nui #Tahiti

World Premiere of 'Te Pito o Te Henua'

The much-anticipated documentary film, 'Te Pito o Te Henua' (translated as 'The Navel of the World'), is set to make its world premiere at the prestigious 22nd International Oceanian Documentary Film Festival (FIFO). This event, taking place from January 31 to February 9, 2025, will allow audiences to engage both online and in person at the Te Fare Tauhiti Nui - Maison de la Culture in Tahiti.

This compelling short documentary focuses on the intricate relationship that the Rapa Nui people share with their land and water on Easter Island, one of the most isolated inhabited islands across the globe. Having been selected for competition in the category for Best Short Documentary, 'Te Pito o Te Henua' aims to highlight the vital cultural identity of the Rapa Nui community, particularly as they approach their most significant cultural event, the Tãpati Rapa Nui festival.

Directed by Martin Kingman and Nils Cowan, the film has been co-produced with the Rapa Nui people through their local government, the Municipality of Rapa Nui. It delves into the essence of the Tãpati Rapa Nui festival, showcasing the traditions, languages, and the rich tapestry of Rapa Nui culture.

Lynn Rapu, a dedicated advocate for the Rapa Nui arts and traditions, appears in the film and reflects on the community's legacy, saying, "We survived from (being) only 111 people. (...) We are here to continue this legacy; we are the living face of our ancestors. And if we don't take hold of our culture, it will be lost." This poignant statement emphasizes the film's mission: to document and celebrate the Rapa Nui identity and culture, ensuring that it is carried forward by future generations.

what sets 'Te Pito o Te Henua' apart is its emphasis on collaboration and unity within the community. The filmmakers expressed their hope that the documentary would convey the joy and solidarity experienced during the Tãpati festival, reinforcing the significance of self-determination and environmental stewardship among Indigenous youth.

The film is part of a larger initiative named the Wayfinders Circle, a global network set on empowering Indigenous communities in managing their lands, maintaining cultural continuity, and enhancing resilience through storytelling.

The International Oceanian Documentary Film Festival, which has been celebrating the diverse cultures of the Pacific since its inception in 2004, offers a unique opportunity for filmmakers to present their work and explore contemporary issues affecting Oceania. Not only does it serve as a platform for storytelling, but it also fosters connections and dialogues among diverse cultures.

In showcasing 'Te Pito o Te Henua', FIFO continues its tradition of bringing forth narratives that highlight the rich heritage and pressing realities confronting Indigenous populations across the Pacific. Audiences around the world can look forward to experiencing this heartwarming documentary, which not only honors the spirit of the Rapa Nui people but also resonates with global themes of cultural preservation and environmental guardianship.

As we eagerly await this film's official screening, it stands as a testimony to the resilience and vitality of the Rapa Nui culture, and a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous peoples in safeguarding their traditions and lands.