Watch Children of the Amazon

Children of the Amazon is a 2008 documentary film by Denise Zmekhol that explores the indigenous tribes of the Amazon rainforest and their struggle to protect their way of life against the encroaching threat of modern society. The film is a poignant and powerful exploration of the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the region, and the devastating impact of deforestation and industrialization on its people.

The film follows the lives of several indigenous children, including Elenira Mendes, the daughter of the late environmental activist Chico Mendes, and Almir Narayamoga Surui, a young leader of the Surui people. Through their eyes, we see how the changes taking place in the Amazon are affecting their lives and their communities. As they bear witness to the destruction of their ancestral forests, they are forced to confront difficult questions about their future and their place in the world.

One of the major themes of the film is the struggle of the Amazon's indigenous peoples to protect their land and their way of life from the threats posed by commercial interests, government policies, and infrastructure projects such as dams and highways. Against this backdrop, we see how these communities have adapted to the challenges they face, developing innovative techniques for sustainable agriculture and resource management. We also witness the ways in which they have been able to mobilize and speak out against the injustices they face, often at great personal risk.

Another key theme of the film is the importance of cultural heritage and identity for the people of the Amazon. Through the stories and traditions of the communities we meet, we gain a deep appreciation for the richness and diversity of Amazonian culture. We also see how this culture is intimately tied to the natural world, with a deep reverence for the plants, animals, and spirits that inhabit it. As such, the film poses important questions about the relationship between humans and nature, and the importance of preserving the natural world for future generations.

Visually stunning and emotionally powerful, Children of the Amazon is a vital portrait of one of the world's most important ecological and cultural treasures. Its message is both urgent and hopeful, challenging us to rethink our relationship with the natural world and to work together to protect the planet for generations to come.