Terra Long’s hypnotic sensory exploration weaves together the stories of date palms and a dynamic community along the San Andreas fault, crafting an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Feet in Water, Head on Fire, an experimental documentary by Terra Long, is currently competing at the 26th Montreal International Documentary Festival (RIDM). The film invites viewers on a hypnotic and evocative sensory journey deep into the heart of California’s Coachella Valley. In this mesmerizing cinematic exploration, the film delves into the profound connection between date palms, imported from the Middle East, and the local communities, culture, and identity that have become entwined with them.
Throughout the documentary, it becomes evident that date palms are an integral part of people’s lives in the region, serving as a common thread that weaves through the fabric of communities and the area’s history. These palms, historically imported from the Middle East, have profoundly influenced every facet of daily life, from the economy to gastronomy and even local celebrations. This enduring legacy is celebrated annually, showcasing the pivotal role these date palms have played in shaping the identity of the Coachella Valley.
Feet in Water, Head on Fire unfolds like a dream, a wandering reflection that ebbs and flows, pausing to examine the intricate details of the landscape before continuing its poetic journey. The film’s hypnotic quality is amplified by its visually captivating and thought-provoking imagery, which casts a unique gaze upon the landscape, much like a dream or a moving meditation.
The film skillfully juxtaposes images of varying scales, exploring not only the cultural significance of date palms but also the geological trauma of the San Andreas fault, a scar etched into the landscape’s memory. As we traverse the fault line, we encounter a diverse array of voices and perspectives, each adding a layer to the multifaceted narrative of a place in constant transformation.
Shot on 16mm film, Feet in Water, Head on Fire takes us on a sensory journey through the towns and lives along the San Andreas fault. From the annual Date Festival in Indio to retirees reflecting on their luxury playground in Sun City, from the meticulous care of date palms by Latinx workers to the roots of Middle Eastern influence in Mecca, the film paints a rich and nuanced portrait of a community in flux.
Director Terra Long’s approach to hand-processing the film footage, using leftover dates and native plants, seamlessly intertwines the environment with the film’s fabric. This sensory vibrancy and environmental integration infuse the documentary with a profound sense of past, present, and future, culminating in a gentle yet unforgettable portrayal of a community and landscape forever in motion. Feet in Water, Head on Fire is a singular cinematic experience that lingers in the mind, much like the memories it captures.
