While we were hoping for more references to indigenous retentions or symbolism in this short documentary from Martha Ellen Davis, the overall result is an interesting one. Showcasing the regional identity and uniqueness of the Dominican Southwest, the film takes the viewer on a journey through various towns or areas of the Southwest. Along the way, one sees different cultural traditions, musical genres, and aspects of life and folklore, drawing on African, Taino, Catholic, and Haitian influences. It is unfortunate that the veve-like cosmogram drawn in the first third of the film and the corral de los indios in San Juan de la Maguana never receive significant analysis that would shed light on Taino influences in this part of the island. After all, the southwest of the DR is said to have retained Indian spirits as a part of their form of Dominican Vodou, usually associated with water. Why not include interviews with Dominican practitioners who serve these Indian spirits?
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