Locarno's 'Far From the Trees' is a captivating cinematic journey that intertwines themes of exile, memory, and sound. This film, directed by Meritxell Colell, takes viewers on an immersive exploration of a 50-year-old Mexican sound artist, Adela, as she embarks on a transformative journey through the Peruvian jungle and the Andes. The narrative is a testament to the power of sound and the intricate relationship between personal history and artistic expression.
What makes 'Far From the Trees' particularly intriguing is its unique approach to storytelling. Colell, inspired by the death of a family member and the absence of a proper goodbye, delves into the emotional void left by such loss. The film's central character, Adela, is a fictional creation, embodying the complexities of hybrid identities shaped by exile and migration. This narrative device allows Colell to explore the burden of inherited silence and the beauty of languages, particularly Indigenous languages in Peru and Catalan exile.
One of the most compelling aspects of the film is its sound design. Colell, recognizing the importance of sound in cinema, crafted a sonic tapestry that goes beyond narrative and contextual levels. The film's Super 16mm passages, shot without synchronized sound, capture memories, visions, and reveries, creating a rich auditory landscape. The separate recording of voices, including those of Adela's grandparents and Paula, adds a layer of depth to the narrative, allowing for a multifaceted exploration of sound and its impact on the characters.
The collaboration between Colell and Angélica Castelló, a Mexico-born, Vienna-based composer, is a testament to the film's artistic vision. Castelló's presence reshaped the film over years of residencies, meetings, and debates, ensuring that Adela remained a fictional character rather than a portrait of the performer. This decision allowed for a lighter, more playful approach to the role, turning it into a game and distancing it from reality.
The production of 'Far From the Trees' was a challenging yet rewarding endeavor. Producer Mayca Sanz L-Higueras faced the task of assembling the project in 2021, seeking a European structure that could connect with Latin America through Ibermedia. The film's shoot, which began in February 2024 and ended in July 2025, unfolded in five blocks over more than a year, with Colell also becoming a mother during production. Despite the fragmented shooting schedule, the final product seamlessly weaves together the various elements, creating a cohesive and captivating cinematic experience.
Locarno's selection of 'Far From the Trees' validates Allegra Films' leap into a more ambitious international model. Colell's love for open cinema, which engages viewers and connects them to their own lived experiences, is evident in the film's impact. The film encourages viewers to explore the history of exile, question their own family histories, and reflect on the role of memory in shaping our identities. It raises profound questions about the cost of building a life elsewhere and the complex dynamics of caregiving and responsibility.
In conclusion, 'Far From the Trees' is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant film that showcases the power of sound and the intricate interplay between personal history and artistic expression. Colell's unique approach to storytelling, her collaboration with Castelló, and the film's technical achievements make it a standout in the cinematic landscape. As viewers, we are invited to embark on a journey that explores the beauty of languages, the complexities of hybrid identities, and the enduring impact of memory and exile.
