Centinelas de la Tierra (Sentinels of the Earth): Conversations with the Sierra Popoluca 2000
Distributed by Filmakers Library, 124 East 40th St., New York, NY 10016; 212-808-4980
Producer n/a
Directed by Judith Gleason
VHS, color, 104 min.
Sr. High - College
Anthropology
Date Entered: 11/09/2018
Reviewed by Kathleen Loomis-Sacco, Coordinator of Systems and Technology, SUNY College at FredoniaThe Popoluca are the indigenous people of the Sierra de Santa Marta Mountains of southeastern Mexico. Anthropologists believe that their language has its origins in the Olmec people of the area. This film outlines this ancient culture’s daily life and the traditions of its people.
The film is not narrated and has 8 parts, suitable for a classroom environment. The sections outline both the day-to-day activities of the people, and the ancient traditions their culture is built on. The viewer has a chance to see how the women of the village build a clay oven, as well as traditional dances and songs. The viewer also sees how this culture is struggling to survive in today’s world. One segment shows the elders of the group reincarnating a once-outlawed dance in hopes this activity would bring the community closer together.
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.