MY UNCLE'S TATALA

"Any Yami man must learn how to make boats." This is how we perpetuate family livelihood and our spiritual tradition. In this documentary, the artistic beauty of the laminated boat (TATALA) and the deepest meanings of the boat-making process unfold from an ecological perspective. Everything happens slowly, with affection, under the eyes of the female director who is also a member of the community. "If you cut a tree, you must plant another one," therefore it is the biggest asset of the Yami people that they learn how to be grateful, for they understand the natural environment and know how to cultivate natural resources with diligent work. The documentary illustrates cooperation between husband and wife, and father and son, and how two generations make the boat together. "My Uncle's TATALA" is a light and documentary, that also carries the deepest messages of love and affection expressed by the meaningful and heartfelt words of the uncle.