Zed
Human Stories 52'

Asmat

The Asmat people live on the southwestern coast of western Papua. a land that has long remained free of outsiders, discouraged by the Asmats' terrifying reputation as cannibals and headhunters.

The film tells the story of Rufinus, a 20 year old Asmat, that will be married. Before that however, he must capture and kill a cassowary, the great solitary bird that lives in the depths of the jungle.

Accomplishing this task, will give Rufinus a sense of belonging to the Asmat people, whom their neighbors, the Mimikans call, "We mana wé: the men who eat the man".

Parallel to the wedding, spectacular and rare stock film retraces the history of this terrifying people.

Direction: Jean-Michel Corillion

Production: ZED, Odyssée & RAI

Languages: French, Arab, Brazilian Portuguese, Español, English

awards & festivals

  • Sondrio International Film Festival (Italy)

    M.A Partha Sarathy Award

  • Worldmedia Festival (Germany)

    Intermédia Globe Gold

  • Columbus Film Festival (United States)

    Bronze Plaque

see also