In the documentary “Meet the Mennonites”, viewers are taken on a captivating journey back in time to Central America. The focus is on an intriguing community known as the Mennonites, ultra-conservative Protestants who seek refuge from the modern world. The documentary captures the essence of their unique lifestyle, highlighting their traditional dress, 19th-century-style education, and strict adherence to the teachings of a Dutch priest from the 16th century.
The visual narrative unfolds with scenes of boys in overalls and hats, girls in long dresses, and a segregated school where children recite passages from the Bible in German. The Mennonite community’s isolation, with almost 350,000 members worldwide, living in self-sufficient colonies, serves as a protective shield against the temptations of the contemporary world. This closed-off community, previously shrouded in mystery, grants the filmmakers unprecedented access, offering a rare glimpse into their private universe.
The Rigor of Mennonite Life
Within this ultra-conservative community, life revolves around the Bible, and even the color of their clothes is systematized. The documentary explores the strict rules governing everything from clothing choices to leisure activities. The Mennonites believe in the importance of large families, considering them a sign of closeness to God. Originating from Europe, specifically Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, the Mennonites fled to the remotest parts of Central and South America 250 years ago.
As the filmmakers delve deeper, they introduce characters like Franz, a Mennonite who allowed a forbidden object, a mobile phone, into his house. Franz’s act of rebellion reveals the internal tensions within the community. While some individuals embrace change, others staunchly resist, fearing the loss of their traditional way of life. The documentary sheds light on these internal struggles, showcasing the diversity of perspectives within the Mennonite community.
Escaping Civilization: A Quest for Idealism
The documentary poses thought-provoking questions about the Mennonites’ motivations for fleeing civilization in the 21st century. The narrative explores whether it is still possible to escape the modern world and create an ideal community. The filmmakers embark on a journey under the Caribbean sun in Central America, specifically Belize, where the Mennonites have established their unique colonies.
As the cameras enter the secluded world of the Mennonites, the community’s resistance to technology becomes evident. The filmmakers encounter both intrigue and hesitation from the Mennonites, who are not accustomed to interacting with strangers. Through interviews with individuals like Franz, viewers gain insights into the daily lives, challenges, and aspirations of Mennonite families. The documentary skillfully captures the tension between preserving tradition and the allure of the outside world.
The journey continues to Little Belize, a Mennonite colony frozen in time, where horse-drawn carts replace cars, and strict rules govern every aspect of life. The filmmakers delve into the roles within a Mennonite household, exploring the division of labor and the adherence to established norms. The contrast between the simplicity of their lives and the complex decision-making processes within the community unfolds, providing a nuanced portrait of Mennonite existence.
The Exodus: A Leap into the Unknown
The documentary takes an unexpected turn as it follows Abram, a 43-year-old Mennonite, and his family as they make the daring decision to leave Belize and establish a new colony in Peru. Abram’s departure signifies a significant break from the traditional Mennonite way of life, and the filmmakers capture the emotional moments as he bids farewell to his family and embarks on a journey into the unknown.
The challenges faced by Abram and his family in navigating modern conveniences, such as escalators and air travel, highlight the stark contrast between their secluded existence and the broader world. The journey leads them to Pukalpa, a bustling town in Peru, where Abram grapples with the complexities of starting anew in a vastly different environment. The documentary provides an intimate look at the struggles, hopes, and aspirations of Mennonites seeking to redefine their community in the heart of the Amazon.
In the dense Amazon forest, the Mennonites face numerous challenges, from navigating treacherous roads to discovering and claiming their new land. The contrast between their previous life and the potential for a fresh start unfolds against the backdrop of the lush Amazonian landscape. The documentary leaves viewers on the edge of their seats as Abram embarks on the monumental task of building a new home and community, symbolizing a quest for idealism and a break from the constraints of their past.
In “Meet the Mennonites” the filmmakers skillfully navigate the complexities of a community at the intersection of tradition and change. The documentary invites viewers to reflect on the universal themes of identity, resistance to change, and the pursuit of an idealized way of life.
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