Belonging - Tribe Documentary

Discuss the idea of belonging and how this is represented in “Tribe”

To truly belong, we must immerse ourselves in experiences that challenge the fundamental values held by the beliefs accustomed to the society we live in. Embracing new cultures and willingly submitting to spiritual guidance leads us to discover a positive, open attitude towards acceptance and ourselves. The documentary ‘Tribe’ (2005), presented by Bruce Parry, explores the isolated Kingdom of Bhutan and demonstrates a strong sense of affiliation.

The journey Parry endures demonstrates his determination to identify with the Layap people to transform his westernised outlook through spiritual teachings and cultural inclusion. The establishing shot of the village surrounded by high Himalayan mountains, where devout Buddhists and yak herders reside, represents the isolation of a connected community. Parry begins his journey by asserting his desire to becoming “one of the tribe” in a persistent tone, and to experience life through a Buddhist perspective. His personal reflective narration demonstrates respect and attentiveness to the understanding of the Laya value where "anything you become attached to will bring you great suffering", which Parry is able to identify with in his life.  The notion that “gods and ghosts rub shoulders with holy men and yak herders” became the psychological motivation for Parry in achieving spiritual attachment and cultural affiliation during his journey. A sense of belonging is translated through Parry’s willingness to commit to the religious teachings of Buddhism and his adoption into the tribe.

Bhutan’s exotic nature complements the strong cultural beliefs infatuated within the tribe. Parry is able to achieve unity through his readiness to become involved by participating in daily activities with the Bhutan people, and also acknowledges his approval in the tribe, allowing him to feel “a bit like coming home” whenever he returns to Laya.  He is exposed to yak wrestling, harvesting exotic plants and is welcomed to wear traditional clothes for an annual village festival, which further establishes his acceptance into the community. The cultural dancing and diegetic singing taught by Kencho is shared to Parry as they have “become like brothers”, further highlighting the attachment Parry has created with the villagers. Kencho symbolises his encounter with Parry with his arrow’s materials, and in a sentimental tone confesses "though we are from different places, its fate that brings us together". The Laya tribe have offered sentimental teachings to Parry and have accepted him as family, through metaphysical and cultural unity.

The documentary ‘Tribe’ reveals to the audience the universal importance of belonging. The relationships created accentuates the idea of finding home in an inclusive environment, and the readiness to be involved in the cultural customs can build a lasting impression. We are able to belong when a purpose is found and a connection is made, when we realise that “life doesn’t have to be all about achieving your goals” but about building bridges not walls.