The documentary Herdswoman
We encounter three Sami women and their lives with the reindeer herds.
Aina, Elisabeth and Lisa belong to different generations. Their stories reflect life in Sápmi (Lapland) and the transition from nomadic existence to modern society. The film relates their pleasure in working with the reindeer. They live with and for their herds. When a court case questions their ancient rights to the reindeers’ pasture their life as reindeer keepers is at risk.
The film illustrates man’s inner driving force and the struggle for existence. It shows the vulnerability of indigenous peoples in modern society and the colonization process, which has led to the present conflict about the right to land and water.
A few photos from the film
Aina off-road with her ATV
Lisa, on board the helicopter
Elisabeth with light backpack
The participants
Lisa likens the meeting between the Sami and the non-Sami world to a couple of soap bubbles touching each other. Both are beautiful, they are together, but there will always be a divide, a boundary between them.
The film makers
Rasmus Ohlander has been active in editing since 1998. Graduate of the Editing School at University College of Film, Radio, Television and Theatre in Stockholm.
