New documentary explores unique Day of the Dead traditions in Oaxaca

Mexican director Ramón Llaven showcases local traditions in southern Mexico with his documentary "Dance of the Souls." The film captures the unique Day of the Dead carnivals held in the Etla Valley communities of Oaxaca, bringing together masked participants in elaborate outfits who dance to remember lost loved ones while celebrating life.

Production Details

Four different companies joined forces to produce the project, including Fata Morgana, Eudiamonía Films, Estudios Churubusco Azteca, and Lost Time Media. The documentary has screened at several events, including the Morelia Film Festival, DocsMX, and the Ji.hlava Documentary Film Festival. Llaven spent nearly 15 years away from his home region before coming back to capture the community from a fresh viewpoint. The project also explores personal grief, touching on the unexpected deaths of several young men from the town, including a friend of the director named Ricardo.

Behind The Scenes

Production faced major hurdles due to the pandemic, requiring strict safety rules and causing widespread worry among local participants. Because of these delays, filming for the main celebration could not take place until 2023 and 2024, after large public gatherings became safe again. The traditional celebrations feature heavy outfits decorated with bells and mirrors that can weigh up to 20 kilograms, worn during dances that continue for up to 18 hours in certain villages. Llaven also wove childhood memories of a spiritual healer named Doña Julia into the narrative. The origins of the local festival remain unclear, with some historical accounts pointing to the Cañada or Mixteca areas as its starting point.

Context

The Day of the Dead is a widely recognized Mexican holiday where families welcome back the souls of deceased relatives for a brief reunion. Traditional regional variations like the Oaxacan muerteada highlight how different communities blend indigenous customs with local music, dance, and community feasts to process grief and honor their ancestors.