The unique documentary Expedition Content is a compilation of anthropological field recordings from 1961 taken during the Harvard Peabody Expedition to Netherlands New Guinea. The audio was recorded by young Harvard graduate Michael Rockefeller – yes, of those Rockefellers – who mysteriously went missing in New Guinea mere months after these recordings.
Expedition Content presents the audience with clips from months’ worth of field recordings taken in the Baliem River Valley. These recordings feature a range of sounds: local Dani people conversing or singing, researcher conversation, agriculture noises, ritual warfare, or even merely the sound of rain for minutes on end. (Word to the wise, given that the audio isn’t always crystal clear, headphones are your friend.)
Most of the documentary is comprised of a black screen with accompanying audio, making it feel more akin to a podcast (or radio show if we’re going old-school) than a film. The rare image or text appears just enough to keep you on your toes and remind you to pay attention to the screen.
This film is essentially pure, if curated, ethnographic research; it feels more accurate to call it an academic video rather than an educational documentary. While viewing, it’s easy to wonder why this research was made into a film for the public. It’s not until the very end that the filmmaker’s intent becomes clear.
Not just a piece of academic history, Expedition Content seeks to bring awareness to a colonized region where the ongoing injustices done to the people go largely ignored. Expedition Content may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s interesting to peek into a decades-old research project that could be a fit if you’re looking to add something a bit more experimental or research-oriented to your film collection.
What type of college/university professors would find this title valuable?
This title would be most valuable for those teaching anthropology, field linguistics, ethnographic research, or West Papuan history/culture/languages.
Does this film have Public Performance Rights available?
Yes.
What kind of film collection would this title be suitable for?
This documentary would be suitable for documentary collections on indigenous cultures, research projects, historical preservation, or West Papua.