The Tombstone Opening 2013
Distributed by Icarus Films, 32 Court St., 21st Floor, Brooklyn, NY 11201; 800-876-1710
Produced by Frances Calvert
Directed by Frances Calvert
DVD, color, 29min.
High School - General Adult
Australian Culture, Death, Melanesian Culture, Tradition, Tribal Dances
Date Entered: 02/15/2017
Reviewed by Sandy Costanza D’Youville College, Buffalo, NYCultural rituals of death and burial are always a fascinating topic as we really have no idea what happens when we die. How different cultures treat the dying, prepare the dead and nurture the spirit varies greatly. The Torres Strait Islanders of Australia, hold a ceremony years after the death to release the spirit and reveal the tombstone to the living friends and loved ones. It is a heartfelt ceremony with prayers, art, gifts, tribal dancing and songs. This film is a wonderful cultural experience that celebrates the living and dead together.