The Lau of Malaita

The Lau of Malaita

  • Overview
  • Crew

Status

Released

Release Date

Jan 1, 1987

Runtime

0h 52m

Genres

Documentary

Original Title

The Lau of Malaita

Director

Leslie Woodhead

Description

This film focuses on the people of Lau lagoon in the Solomon Islands who live on artificial islands near the island of Malaita. These islands are built of coral rubble and the people moved to them in an attempt to escape the dangers of malaria and enemies, and to find better fishing. The film focuses on change and conflict. The concept of 'custom' is vital to the islanders' identity, yet this is being eroded, particularly by Christian missionaries. The conflict between Christian and Pagan now pervades daily life, creating divisions in families and eroding knowledge of traditional life.