This is an innovative, intimate portrait of stalwart members of an indigenous people who inhabit Mexico¹s Sierra de Santa Marta and speak a derivative of ancient Olmec. For convenient classroom use, eight episodes, focussed on various aspects of their culture, have been divided into Parts I and II -- available separately.

Part I begins with recollections of an outlawed carnival celebration intercut with old women performing "Dance of the Tiger" in honor of the corn god. Episode two: younger women collaborate, guided by Santana, in making a fuel-saving clay stove. Episode three moves to Apolinar¹s clinic for a group-cleansing, followed by his recital of a chant to restore a soul stolen by wiley spirits called chanecos. In section four, Santana recounts her life-story.

Part II begins with Don Tomas pouring libations to the rain god. Episode six find us in a polygamous household. Episode seven dramatizes the popular story of Homshuk, the corn god, as Gabriel and his second wife labor in the fields. To conclude, the Arizmendi brothers revive ballads of the Sierra on homemade instruments.

(Part I 52 min; Part II 54 min.)

"This film is very well done and informative, allowing the viewer a look inside a little-seen culture. Recommended for senior high-college anthropology courses. " Kathleen Loomis-Sacco, SUNY College at Fredonia EMRO

"The rich, elaborate ways of understanding and reckoning with the world in search of wellbeing … come through clearly." Prof. William B. Taylor, Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University