Similar to the Amish, the Mennonites also live a life of isolation from the outside world. They resist the temptations of modern society by staying away from it. As a result, outsiders rarely get an inside perspective on their day-to-day lives. Get to know the Mennonites as you kick off the curtain and get a rare glimpse into their simple yet fascinating way of life.
The film observes life in Belize’s Mennonite community. Many residents of the commune are reluctant to appear on camera, but the filmmakers manage to gain the trust of some subjects. Through her insights, we learn what drew her to a life of extreme discipline, piety, and self-discipline.
Their unique perspective is ingrained in them from an early age. Children attend school between the ages of 6 and 13. During this time, they did not have the usual math and science textbooks. Her research revolves entirely around the Bible.
A typical Mennonite family consists of as many as a dozen children. They spend their days working on farmland or building useful furniture to sell to the outside world.
External artifacts — such as cell phones — are seen as Satanic tools. Still, some members of the community have opened up to more inclusion from the surrounding community. This was a sore spot for the more devout Mennonites, who worked hard to ensure that these “criminals” were properly ostracized for their transgressions.
When they sensed that the old order was faltering, resentment began to spread among the more traditional members of the community. Together they banded together to found a new commune in Peru. The ambitious move stoked both optimism and fear. It will be their first time flying and will offer a level of crowd interaction that they have so far managed to avoid.
Keenly observant and free-spirited, Meeting the Mennonites is a fascinating look at dedicated people fueled by a shared desire for a simpler way of life.
Directed by: Mélanie Van Der Ende
