The Power of Sound in Exile: “Far From the Trees” Challenges Us to Listen

Meritxell Colell’s latest feature, “Far From the Trees,” is a cinematic exploration of language, memory, and identity. On its surface, the film appears to be a poignant meditation on exile and endangered languages. However, upon closer examination, it reveals itself to be something far more complex – a nuanced investigation into the human experience.

Colell’s stated goal in creating Adela, the protagonist of “Far From the Trees,” was to center the film on the complexities of hybrid identities shaped by migration and exile. This is no small feat, given the inherently fragmented nature of these experiences. Yet, it is precisely this fragmentation that provides the foundation for Colell’s exploration.

The director has long been fascinated by sound as a medium, and “Far From the Trees” is a testament to her dedication to its power. The film weaves together an incredible variety of sounds – from the whirring of a sewing machine to the distant calls of birds in the Peruvian jungle. Each sound serves not only as a narrative device but also as a window into Adela’s emotional and psychological landscape.

By creating a fictional protagonist, rather than basing the film on her own family history or that of Angélica Castelló, Colell aimed to create a sense of universality. This decision makes it clear that the experiences depicted in “Far From the Trees” are not unique to any one individual or community.

The making of this film itself is a fascinating story. Over several years, Colell assembled a team from multiple countries and backgrounds, all united by their commitment to this complex project. The result is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of listening – both within the filmmaking process and in our daily lives.

As “Far From the Trees” premieres at Locarno, it offers a timely reminder of the need to listen to the stories of others. In an era where global migration has reached unprecedented levels, this film serves as a powerful exploration of what it means to be displaced – both physically and emotionally. It challenges us to consider our own role in shaping the lives of those around us and encourages us to pass on the memories that have been entrusted to us.

Colell eloquently describes the film’s themes: “The film speaks to the need to listen, the importance of passing things on, and how we people act as both transmitters and receivers of memory.” In an age where our collective memory is under threat from all sides, this message could not be more urgent.

As Adela navigates the Peruvian jungle, searching for a way to preserve the languages that have been lost, she embodies the importance of preserving memories. Our own memories – and those of our ancestors – are precious resources. We must listen to them, honor their stories, and pass them on to future generations. Only then can we hope to build a world where language is not just a means of communication but also a source of strength, beauty, and shared humanity.

The world premiere of “Far From the Trees” at Locarno offers us a unique opportunity to engage with this powerful film – to let its sonic tapestry weave itself into our own experiences and memories. As we sit in the darkness of the cinema, listening to the whispers of Adela’s grandparents and the calls of the birds in the jungle, we are reminded that the most profound stories are often those that we have yet to hear.