The Mother and the Sea

Portuguese fishing village Vila Cha is supposed to be the last place on earth where a small traditional community of fisherwomen still exists, though their traditions are gradually fading away. There used to be more than a hundred boats in the village, but less than ten remain today. Goncalo Tocha makes a purely cinematographic exploration of this unique culture that is under threat of disappearance. Representing this place as a genius loci, a deserted place with an ancient mythology and an epic past, the traces of which can be recognised on the faces of local villagers. Tocha’s view is sensitive, austere and profound. Long contemplative takes convey the grandeur of this small silent place, while the murmuring of the sea sounds like an echo of an irretrievable world.

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