Children of the wind (Immersive)

As a filmmaker deeply connected to Galicia, “A Rapa” represents more than just a documentary; it’s a personal journey into the heart of my homeland’s cultural identity. Having grown up in Lugo, a region not far from Sabucedo, I have always been fascinated by the resilience of Galician traditions, especially in the face of modern challenges. The Rapa das Bestas, a centuries-old tradition where the people of Sabucedo round up wild horses and tame them, stands as a symbol of that cultural endurance. It is a ritual that binds the community, defines their connection to nature, and reinforces their identity in a world that is rapidly changing.

This project has allowed me to immerse myself fully in the world of Sabucedo, documenting the lives of the aloitadores and the villagers who keep this tradition alive. After five years of filming, I have witnessed their dedication, strength, and vulnerability, and I want to bring that human story to the screen. My approach to this documentary has been observational letting the stories and actions unfold naturally, without heavy-handed narration or manipulation.

The most compelling aspect of this project is the intersection between tradition and modernity. Sabucedo, like many rural communities, faces the encroachment of wind farms and other industrial developments that threaten the landscape and, by extension, the cultural practices tied to that land. The conflict between preserving an ancient ritual and the push towards modernization is at the heart of "A Rapa." The wild horses are a metaphor for the community's fight for freedom, against forces that seem unstoppable, much like Don Quixote’s battle against the windmills. This parallel is central to the film's narrative, as it illustrates the larger struggle to preserve cultural heritage in the face of environmental and economic pressures.

Visually, my goal has been to capture the beauty and rawness of the landscape, the intensity of the curro, and the emotional depth of the participants. The wild energy of the festival contrasts with the quiet moments of reflection from the aloitadores, creating a visual and emotional rhythm that mirrors the balance between chaos and control. This balance is key to understanding the essence of the Rapa das Bestas.

“A Rapa” is a film about resilience of a community, a tradition, and a way of life. It is my hope that by sharing this story, we not only celebrate the strength of Sabucedo’s people but also ignite a broader conversation about the value of preserving cultural practices in the face of modern challenges. This documentary is a testament to the power of tradition and the people who fight to keep it alive, and I am honored to tell their story.