BAATO (n. [Nepali] 1. path, trail; 2. way; 3. road) is at once a sensitive portrait of a family that has thus far existed largely apart from the trappings of modernity, a fascinating chronicle of the epic journey they embark on each year, and a penetrating depiction of the culture and politics of Nepal. Few films have so clearly depicted the profound impact of the infrastructure of roads, bridges, and transportation networks – and of the people who are empowered to make decisions about such things – on the lives of individual men and women. Perhaps most refreshingly, BAATO is distinguished from other similar documentaries by the depth of its engagement with Mikma and her family, its refusal to objectify or exoticize them by depicting them as “figures in a landscape” who are defined by their relationship to the road. Mikma and her family come alive as individuals – their personalities transcend the conditions they live within, and endow BAATO with a rare vitality and generosity of spirit.  (excerpted from Anthology Film Archives program notes)

Co-directors Kate Stryker and Lucas Millard (and special guest TBD) will be in person for the screening, and will host a Q & A immediately following the presentation.

Part of the proceeds will be donated to the Karma and Jyamu Bhotia Foundation (Durango, CO) and will directly impact communities highlighted in the documentary.