The Weeping Camel
I REALLY loved this DVD.
Little wonder that it was the Academy Award Nomination in 2005 for best documentary.
Viewing it is watching a touching family story unfold.
The setting is springtime in the Gobi Desert, the family nomadic herders, and their home a large yurt warmly and brightly decorated with rugs and the sole living quarters for three generations.
The family members are caring for their animals and in particular assisting their hardy Bactrian camels with the births of their colts.
One of the camels has a difficult delivery, but finally gives birth to a rare white calf.
There is trouble, however, because despite all efforts made she refuses to accept her newborn, distancing herself and spurning its efforts to suckle.
A decision is made to send the two small boys of the family, alone, on an overnight journey through the desert to the nearest settlement and there to enlist the help of a traditional violinist to perform an old ritual aimed at bringing dam and colt together.
First, the grandfather asks the smallest boy if he can ride.
“Yes”, is the mischievous reply.
There is no fuss, no questioning, and off he goes with his brother, tucked snuggly between the two humps of a camel.
At the settlement, he sees a TV for the first time. It is love at first sight! He wants one!
The characters in this film are delightful, especially the two little boys.
I was struck by the willingness to live together in harmony, helping each other with stoic calmness and good humour to overcome the trials of a harsh environment.
One could not help but wonder if people living in our wealthier but more stressful Western societies are any happier or content with their lives.
This DVD is available at Noosa Library.
– Jenny Carter, Friends of Noosa Library.
