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RAI FILM Festival takes place on 27-30 March 2025. Learn more.

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The Water of Words: a cultural ecology of a small island in Eastern Indonesia

Directed by J. Fox, Patsy Asch, Timothy Asch

1983 – 30'

Synopsis

This film examines the ecology and poetry of everyday life. Two Rotinese narrate this film, each offering his perception of the importance of the Lontar (Borassus) palm: a clan leader describes the many practical uses of the palm; a poet tells of its origin and mythic significance. The film complements Fox’s book, The Harvest of the Palm, as well as his essays on ritual language.

RAI FILM Festival 2025

The next RAI FILM Festival will take place in person from 27-30 March 2025 at the Watershed Cinema and the Arnolfini International Centre for Contemporary Arts in Bristol (UK) and online throughout the month of April 2025.