In a world where new is better & faster is the best, I have been captivated by several films that take their time to open up like a red wine that breathes & expands after it is uncorked. The German-Mongolian co-production The story of the Weeping Camel looks at the connection between the Mongolian people and their domesticated Bactrian camel herds. One family goes through great lengths to develop the missing bond between mother camel & newborn calf. Along the way, this 2003 docudrama shares with us the respect and love that this herding family feels for their animals, as well as for each other.
Meanwhile, 2002 saw South Korea create a story pitting city against country, excess against minimalism, grandson against grandmother. With a minimum of dialogue & set in an unforgiving but beautiful rural mountain village, The Way Home also takes a gentle look at the importance of familial bonds & maternal love. Like The Giving Tree in Shel Silverstein’s 1964 children’s book of the same name, the grandmother gives of herself repeatedly for the selfish boy under her care. Gently unwinding, the film guides us as we develop affection & respect for the grandmother (intuitively portrayed by a 76 year old non-actress) and an unexpected tenderness & understanding for her self-centered grandson.
These two films complement each other so well in their messages of intergenerational & interspecies love and respect. Grab a bottle of wine. Shut off your cell phone. Watch this peaceful & joyous double header.
profvalfranco 
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