The Territory screening

In recognition of Indigenous People's Day, Story House Ithaca and The Soil Factory present "The Territory," a powerful Sundance and Peabody Award-winning documentary from the Brazilian Amazon directed by Ithaca native Alex Pritz and produced by fellow Ithacan Will Miller (who  happens to be the son of Story House co-director Jonathan Miller and Soil Factory co-founder Rebecca Nelson.) 

The Territory tells the story of the Uru-eu-wau-wau people, fewer than 200 strong, and their energetic youth-led effort to keep land invaders at bay during the term of President Jair Bolsonaro. Their poor landless adversaries are also given plenty of time to explain their motivations. The film is gorgeously shot and unfolds like a fictional feature, with strong characters and deeply moving moments captured on camera. 

Critics and Indigenous advocates have lauded the filmmakers for their deep collaboration with the people they were documenting. When the COVID 19 pandemic disrupted the filmmaking process, the young Uru-eu-wau-wau took over the filming and the results were stunning. 

The film has been called "thrilling" (New York Times), "gripping" (Los Angeles Times), and "essential viewing" (The Guardian). It was shortlisted for the 2022 Academy Awards and is up for three Emmys.

Bring your own drinks and snacks to share, and plan to stick around after the movie for an informal discussion. The Soil Factory is a large warehouse space. It will be heated, but dress warmly just in case. The event is free but both Story House and the Soil Factory will be grateful for your donations.