Synopsis

Filmmaker Christophe Yanuwana Pierre’s journey to Talwakem (“the one who reflects” in the Wayana language) was a search for his identity. One of the Kali’na people, he grew up on the banks of the Maroni river in French Guiana. From Yalimapo beach, the place of the first meeting between his people and Europeans, to Tumuc Humac, which remains the home of Kaïlawa, a great Wayana warrior, his journey highlights his people’s connection to these lands.

Details

Medium Length (56mins) Documentary | French Guiana

Production

Directors:

Christophe Yanuwana Pierre

Born in French Guiana, Christophe Yanuwana Pierre grew up in the village Terre-Rouge in a family of 4 children. He began his studies, in the planning of territory but turns to communication. At the same time, he was introduced to audiovisual practice with the Image Pole of Maroni. He recently directed his first film “Unti, les origins” and also acted in the second season of the Guyana series (Shine Films, Canal +). Pierre is committed to the indigenous cause, he is co-founder and spokesperson for the Autochthonous Youth movement of Guyana. In June 2018 he was elected vice-president of the Grand Customary Council of the Amerindian and Bushinengé Peoples. He initiated the launch of the traveling cinema “Kuwenejaï” (“I see you, I look at you,” in Wayana language) which organises film screenings in indigenous villages.