Synopsis

​ In 1791, Haitian Dutty Boukman led a voodoo ritual in Bois-Caïman that led to the creation of the first black republic. Since then, rituals of transformation and artistic expression have been a key component of a thriving culture as the country has faced oppression, poverty, and natural disasters. Leave the Bones is a sensual film about Haiti's ancient and modern rituals, made in collaboration with poets, dancers, musicians, fishermen, rollerbladers, and voodoo practitioners. The film was also adapted from a poem by Haitian author Wood-Jerry Gabriel.

Program Note

​ This sensuous film weaves together lines and kites with a poetic narrative, Haiti's vibrant colors and sounds, dance, and songs. Despite the Haitian Revolution in 1791 and the birth of the Black Republic in 1804, Haiti remains ensnared in the chains of oppression, poverty, disaster, and violence, like a zombie that cannot escape its fate. By showcasing the Mask Festival with a spectrum of masks from ancient to modern times, the film encapsulates Haiti's unique magic through the captivating performances of voodoo priests, rappers, dancers, and fishermen. (Yang hee)

Director

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  • Kaveh Nabatian
  • KavehKaveh ("Sin La Habana", "The Seven Last Words") is an award-winning filmmaker and musician. His time living in Haiti and teaching film at the Cine Institute in Jacmel led him to collaborate with neighbours, artists and cultural legends to film an alternative portrait of the island.