New Documentary 'Amazomania' Questions Ethics of Filming Isolated Indigenous Tribes

A new documentary examines the ethical dilemmas of filming isolated Indigenous communities. 'Amazomania' revisits a 1996 expedition into the Amazon led by Swedish filmmaker Erling Söderström. The journey aimed to make first contact with the Korubo tribe, one of many groups living in voluntary isolation worldwide. In 1996, Söderström and Sydney Possuelo, a specialist in protecting Brazil’s Indigenous peoples, entered Korubo territory. This marked the first recorded attempt by outsiders to establish contact with the group. Their mission was to shield the Korubo from further encroachment by invaders.

The documentary explores the power imbalances inherent in such expeditions. It questions whether filmmakers and photographers should enter isolated areas without consent. The Communidade Korubo, who served as executive producers, were closely involved in the film’s production to ensure their perspective was represented. The film highlights the challenges of documenting communities that choose isolation. Over 200 such groups exist globally, many facing threats from external interference. 'Amazomania' leaves the ethical debate open but centres the voices of the Korubo in the discussion.