Humano

Humano is a 2013 Argentine documentary film directed and written by Argentine filmmaker Alan Stivelman. Ambitious in its personal journey and the philosophical questions it seeks to answer, the film aims to bridge the gap between the mundane and the spiritual, the scientific and the mysterious. The film abounds in open-ended exploration as it sets out on an awe-inspiring journey through the unique terrain of the Andes.

In Humano, Stivelman embarks on an introspective journey, aiming to get in touch with roots of human existence. The story begins with Stivelman feeling a sense of unfulfillment and disconnection. He experiences vague and recurring dreams that he can't fully comprehend but knew were significant. Troubled by these dreams and eager to understand more about himself and the world around him, Stivelman decides to break free from his urban life in Buenos Aires and head towards the Andes in search of answers.

In his search for meaning, he meets Plácido — a shaman living in the Andes mountains. This meeting between an urban filmmaker and a traditional shaman becomes the centerpiece of the narrative. Plácido, who belongs to the indigenous Q'ero community, takes on the role of Stivelman’s spiritual guide. He interprets Stivelman's dreams and shares his wisdom, revealing the secrets of the Inca culture that survived centuries in isolation.

The film captures the profound conversations between the two, often in the backdrop of extraordinary, panoramic views of the Andean landscapes. As Stivelman navigates the physical landscape of the Andes and inner landscape of his psyche, Plácido helps him to connect with the natural and spiritual world, enlightening him about the cosmology of the indigenous people, their rituals, and their connection with Pachamama (Mother Earth).

The film serves as an anthropological documentary, providing valuable insight into the Q'ero community, who are believed to be the direct descendants of the Inca. It beautifully highlights their traditions, wisdom, and ancient ritual practices, capturing their unique way of life that contrasts with Stivelman’s urban upbringing. At the same time, it is an exploration of spiritual awakening that takes viewers on a metaphysical journey, diving deep into the eternal questions about human existence and our place in the universe.

The visual aesthetics of the film are just as captivating as its philosophical discourses. The film incorporates stunning cinematography that captures the beauty of the Andes, as well as the lives and rituals of the Q'ero community. Stivelman's role is not just limited to being the subject of the film but extends as he deftly weaves a visually enchanting narrative that marks his transformational journey.

The film also incorporates a blend of innovative filmmaking techniques. One of these technique is the blend of animation and live-action footage that is used to dramatize Stivelman's dreams and connecting them to the film's larger narrative. Notably, the film's quest for spiritual understanding never overshadows its commitment to well-grounded ethnographic exploration, and these different aspects instead complement and enhance one another.

Throughout his journey, Stivelman grapples with universal questions about human existence, our connections to our ancestors, and the world at large. The film effectively highlights the value of introspection and searching for deeper meanings. As he absorbs the Andean wisdom and incorporates it into his personal understanding, he serves a representation of anybody who is seeking to find purpose in life.

Humano is not just a film; it's a philosophical journey, a spiritual quest, and an anthropological study. It seeks to unravel the mysteries that plague every self-reflective human being- who we are, where we come from, and where are we headed. This fusion of personal narrative with larger philosophical themes makes Humano a film that reaches beyond the boundaries of standard-documentary format and makes it a unique cinematic experience.

In essence, Humano implores its audience to reflect, to ask questions, and to recognize the antiquity and wisdom of indigenous cultures. It projects a world where science and spirituality can co-exist to make sense of human existence. The film leaves its viewers with more questions than answers, inviting them to embark on their journeys of self-exploration. This pioneering documentary continues to captivate audiences with its insightful, awe-inspiring narrative and is a must-watch for those interested in ancient cultures and philosophical discourses.