A journey through identity and heritage: ‘Listen to the Voices’

A new voice in cinema

In the vibrant world of cinema, Maxime Jean-Baptiste emerges as a fresh and compelling voice with his debut feature film, Listen to the Voices (Listen to the Voices). This film, which will premiere at the Locarno Film Festival, is a poignant exploration of identity, heritage, and the lingering shadows of colonialism.

A summer of self-discovery

The narrative follows Melrick, a 13-year-old boy from the Parisian suburb of Saint-Denis, as he spends his summer in Cayenne, the capital of French Guiana, with his grandmother. This journey is more than just a holiday; it is a return to his roots and a quest for self-discovery. Melrick’s desire to learn the drum and join the local drum and dance band, Mayouri Tchô Neg, symbolizes his connection to his heritage and his burgeoning sense of identity within the Guianese diaspora in France.

Confronting the past

However, Melrick’s journey is not just about personal growth. It is also his first encounter with the complex ethical issues that have shaped his family’s history. The murder of his uncle, Lucas, a charismatic drummer and co-founder of Mayouri Tchô Neg, still casts a long shadow over the family. Lucas’ best friend, Yannick, grapples with the desire for revenge, while Melrick’s grandmother advocates for forgiveness, offering a poignant lesson in resilience and wisdom.

A personal and political narrative

Listen to the Voices is deeply personal, drawing from Jean-Baptiste’s own experiences. The film’s authenticity is further enhanced by the participation of Jean-Baptiste’s family members, who play fictionalized versions of themselves. This blend of fiction and reality creates a powerful narrative that reflects on the persistence of violence and the enduring impact of colonial history on French Guiana.

The haunting echoes of history

Jean-Baptiste’s work is a reflection on the haunting echoes of history. He describes the film as a plunge into the heart of stories that haunt European societies, a history that returns with all its violence from the New World. This perspective is not just a narrative device but a critical examination of the traumas and complexities of post-colonialism.

A captivating performance

Melrick’s performance is particularly noteworthy. His natural presence in front of the camera and his willingness to be both filmed and seen add a layer of authenticity and intimacy to the film. The film’s exploration of violence and mourning is handled with deep intelligence, making it a compelling watch for anyone interested in the human condition and the legacies of history.

A continuation of a powerful voice

Listen to the Voices continues the themes explored in Jean-Baptiste’s previous works, such as Listen to the Beat of Our Images (Listen to the Beat of Our Images) and Moune Ô (Moune Ô). These films offer a corrective local point of view on the construction of the Guiana Space Center and the survival of colonial stereotypes in the Western collective unconscious. Jean-Baptiste’s ability to blend documentary and fiction creates a unique and powerful narrative style that resonates with audiences.

A collaborative effort

The film is co-directed with Audrey Jean-Baptiste, Maxime’s sister, who brings her own directorial experience to the project. Their collaboration results in a film that is both deeply personal and universally relevant, addressing issues that continue to shape societies around the world.

A promising future

Produced by Belgium’s Twenty Nine Studio & Production and France’s Spectres Production, Listen to the Voices is a testament to the power of storytelling in addressing complex social issues. MoreThan Films, which has secured international sales rights outside France, recognizes the film’s potential to resonate with a global audience.

A new era for MoreThan Films

Founded in 2020, MoreThan Films has quickly established itself as a significant player in the film industry. Initially representing shorts and documentaries, the company has expanded to feature films, showcasing works like The Tundra Within Me by Sara Magrethe Oskal, Mountains directed by Monica Sorelle, and Muyeres from Marta Lallana. Their commitment to diverse and powerful storytelling is evident in their selection of films, including Listen to the Voices.

Final thoughts

Listen to the Voices is more than just a film; it is a journey through identity, heritage, and the enduring impact of history. Jean-Baptiste’s debut feature is a powerful reminder of the importance of storytelling in understanding and addressing the complexities of our world. For cinema enthusiasts, this film is a must-watch, offering a unique and compelling perspective on the human experience.