Ep 2. When the Mountains Tremble
- June 22, 2012
When the Mountains Tremble is an episode from season 25 of the acclaimed documentary series POV. This episode is centered around the story of the Guatemalan revolution and the indigenous Mayan people who were fighting for their rights and land. The film beautifully captures the struggles and challenges that they faced in their journey to gain justice and recognition.
The story is set in the 1980s, during the peak of the conflict between the Guatemalan government and the people of Guatemala. The film starts with an introductory shot of the stunning Guatemalan landscape, with its lush forests, misty mountains, and serene rivers. It then introduces us to Rigoberta Menchu, a young Mayan woman who became the voice of the indigenous people in their fight against oppression.
Through interviews with Menchu and other key figures in the conflict, we learn about the complex history of Guatemala and the systematic discrimination and violence that the indigenous people faced. Menchu speaks about the brutal murder of her father, mother, and brother at the hands of the military, and how this tragedy became a turning point in her life.
The documentary then moves on to show us various scenes of the conflict, including military operations and protests by the indigenous people. We see how the movement gained momentum and support from all over the world, with people from various countries joining the cause.
The documentary also delves into the role that the United States played in the conflict, with various interviews with diplomats, activists, and journalists. We get a sense of the geopolitical context of the conflict and how America's Cold War policies influenced the events in Guatemala.
What makes this documentary particularly impactful is the rawness and authenticity of the footage. The film was shot in 1983 by Pamela Yates, an American documentarian who traveled to Guatemala to capture the events on camera. Her footage is unflinching in its portrayal of the atrocities committed by the military, and it is a testament to her courage and dedication as a filmmaker.
The documentary ends with a sense of hope and resilience, despite the immense challenges that the movement faced. The images of the indigenous people standing their ground, chanting slogans, and demanding justice are both inspiring and moving.
Overall, When the Mountains Tremble is a powerful and gripping documentary that sheds light on an oft-overlooked chapter in the history of Latin America. Through the personal stories of the people involved in the conflict, this film humanizes the struggle and reminds us of the enduring importance of justice, equality, and the fight against oppression.
