Cannibal Tours

When one thinks of travel, they often picture beautiful landscapes, exotic foods, and unfamiliar cultures. But what happens when the tourist becomes the spectacle, the oddity, the thing to be observed? That’s the question posed by the thought-provoking documentary, Cannibal Tours.

The film follows a group of predominantly white tourists as they journey to the remote Sepik River in Papua New Guinea, seeking an adventure in a place that is both culturally rich and vastly different from their own. As they travel by boat and witness traditional dances, rituals, and artifacts, they also interact with the local tribespeople, many of whom have adapted to accommodate the visitors’ presence.

The tourists themselves become the subject of fascination, as the camera captures their clueless remarks and awkward attempts at communication with the locals. At times, the film has a satirical edge, as the visitors are seen snapping photos and treating the people and their customs as a kind of exotic entertainment.

But the documentary doesn’t only place blame on the tourists for their ignorance and lack of sensitivity. It also explores the power dynamic at play, where the locals, who are often living in poverty, see the tourists as a source of income and adapt their traditions to cater to their expectations. The film raises important questions about the ethics of tourism and the impact it has on indigenous cultures.

Director Dennis O’Rourke uses a mix of observational footage and interviews with both the tourists and locals to present a nuanced view of the situation. The editing is sharp and effective, highlighting the contrast between the visitors’ luxurious accommodations and the poverty of the surrounding villages.

While the film’s title, Cannibal Tours, may suggest a more sensationalistic approach, the documentary is actually a thoughtful and thought-provoking exploration of cultural clash and exploitation. It’s a reminder that even the most well-intentioned traveler can unwittingly perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to the erasure of unique and valuable cultures.

Overall, Cannibal Tours is a must-watch for anyone interested in travel, anthropology, or cultural studies. It’s a film that will challenge your assumptions and leave you with much to contemplate about the power dynamics of travel and the responsibilities of the visitor.