In the high mountains of Laos, the daily life of the Lauwan family is much the same as that of their oldest ancestors. Their lives are governed by their customs and rituals, most of which have nothing to do with the comforts and conveniences of modern life. But that could soon change when they find themselves at a crossroads in their lives. Village on the Clouds is an emotional portrait of a proud family that has withstood the undeniable calls of modern life.
The Laovans are members of the Akha, an indigenous tribe that has existed for over 50 generations. This family of 12 is deeply rooted in the customs and customs of the elders. They are assigned fixed seats at meals, wear traditional clothing and observe a very specific routine.
Filmmakers are patient observers of everyday life. Women do most of the work of keeping the village running. They light fires, clean houses, tend farms, feed pigs and chickens, sew clothes, and even get wood from the surrounding forests. The men take care of the youngest children in the tribe, while the women are busy with these duties. They were a very spiritual people and even performed animal sacrifices to satisfy their superstitions.
The isolation may have made them feel closer to their roots, but it also left them without the convenience of electricity, paved roads, running water and quality medical care. They had high hopes for their youngest child, who spent years attending school in a neighboring town.
The local government urged villagers to move to a more livable and modern environment. Doing so, however, would mean giving up much of their culture that they hold dear. The film’s dramatic appeal lies in the struggle between upholding its proud traditions and the inevitable calls for change.
“Village on the Clouds” places us in a completely alien culture and discovers a powerful sense of humanity we all share.
Directed by: Ulrike Bremer
