Song from the Forest 2015

As a young man, American Louis Sarno was captivated by a song he stumbled upon on the radio, sparking a journey that would change his life forever. Following the enchanting sounds, he ventured to the heart of the Central African rainforest, discovering their origin with the Bayaka Pygmies, a community of hunters and gatherers. Fascinated and enchanted, he found a home there and never looked back.

Fast forward twenty-five years, Louis has dedicated himself to capturing the rich tapestry of Bayaka music, having recorded over 1,000 hours of their unique sounds. Now fully embraced by the Bayaka society, he stands not only as a musician but as a father to his 13-year-old son, Samedi. During a particularly harrowing time, when Samedi was just a baby and fell gravely ill, fear gripped Louis’s heart. He held his son tightly through a terrifying night, vowing, “If you get through this, one day I’ll show you the world I come from.”

That day has finally arrived. Louis sets out with Samedi on an extraordinary adventure, leaving the serene beauty of the African rainforest behind to navigate a vastly different jungle: the bustling streets of New York City. This journey is not just about geographical change but also a reconnection with his own roots, as they meet Louis’s family and reconnect with old friends, including his close college buddy, Jim Jarmusch.

As they traverse the stark contrasts between the tranquility of the rainforest and the frenetic energy of urban America, the film weaves a captivating soundtrack with poignant visuals, reflecting the profound bond between father and son. The stories of Louis and Samedi converge to paint a heartfelt portrait that explores identity, belonging, and the universal connection between generations. SONG FROM THE FOREST emerges as a modern epic that beautifully captures life amid the juxtaposition of nature and skyscrapers.