Watch Ghostland: The View of the Ju'Hoansi

'Ghostland: The View of the Ju'Hoansi' is a 2016 documentary film that takes us on a journey through the unique culture and lifestyle of the Ju'Hoansi people. The film is directed by Simon Stadler and Catenia Lermer, and it presents an intimate portrayal of the Ju'Hoansi way of life in the modern world. The Ju'Hoansi are one of the last remaining hunter-gatherer communities in the world, living in the harsh landscape of the Kalahari desert in southern Africa. The film captures their traditional way of living and the challenges they face as they try to preserve their culture in a world that is rapidly changing.

The film opens with stunning aerial shots of the vast desert landscape, giving a sense of the isolation and remoteness of the Ju'Hoansi homelands. We are then introduced to some of the community members and their daily lives, as they forage for food, hunt game, and engage in social activities.

The filmmakers use a mix of interviews and observational footage to bring the Ju'Hoansi culture to life on the screen. We hear from community elders about their traditional beliefs and rituals, including their close relationship with the land and the spirits that inhabit it. We learn about the Ju'Hoansi system of gift-giving, which helps maintain social harmony and cooperation within the community.

The film also touches on the impact of modernity on the Ju'Hoansi way of life. We see how the community is starting to adopt some modern practices, such as using motorbikes for transport and trading with neighboring communities. This has both positive and negative effects, with some community members benefiting from increased access to resources and goods, while others struggle to adapt to the changes.

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of 'Ghostland' is its portrayal of the unique worldview of the Ju'Hoansi people. The filmmakers do an excellent job of capturing the depth and richness of their culture, and the film is a testament to the resilience of these people as they navigate the challenges of the modern world.

In one particularly moving scene, we see a group of Ju'Hoansi watching a music video on a smartphone. As they dance and sing along, we can see the joy and excitement on their faces. It's a moment that illustrates the complexity of cultural exchange and the ways in which traditions can evolve and adapt over time.

Overall, 'Ghostland: The View of the Ju'Hoansi' is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that offers a unique glimpse into a way of life that is rapidly disappearing from our world. It's a film that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the resilience and adaptability of the human spirit, and a sense of awe for the beauty and complexity of our shared humanity.

In conclusion, 'Ghostland' is a must-see for anyone interested in anthropology, cultural studies, or the human condition. It's a film that will challenge your assumptions and broaden your perspective on the world around us. Highly recommended.

Ghostland: The View of the Ju'Hoansi is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.