A Map for Saturday (2007)On a trip around the world, every day feels like Saturday. A MAP FOR SATURDAY reveals a world of long-term, solo travel through the stories of trekkers on four continents. The documentary ... See full summary » Director:Brook Silva-BragaWriter:Brook Silva-Braga |
|
| 0Share... |
I am a traveler. Born in Europe, I have traveled Europe extensively. I did a RTW (Around The World Trip), I traveled several individual countries independently, I have traveled specific regions independently
- generally speaking, I am a nomad (and currently an expat). So, yeah,
I was very curious what 'A Map for Saturday' could do for me. While watching the movie, I had many moments of nodding, I had many moments of pure joy because some memories came over me and I definitely understood where most of these people were coming from: backpacking = freedom, backpacking = a one time opportunity, backpacking scares you into open-mindedness, etc., etc. However, eventually the movie left me wanting. On one hand, because I wanted to run into the storage room and pack my gear (which is a good thing). But on the other hand also because it was rather one dimensional. Yes, the impact meeting other travelers has on you when you do a one year solo trip is undeniable. And yes, it is interesting to hear these '5 hours friends' opinions, motivations and philosophy. But that goes only that far. It's shallow - something the director recognizes himself, but doesn't break out off. And that is why the movie is one dimensional. That's why the movie is more a study of a subculture, rather than trying to communicate the essence of backpacking. Backpacking is not exclusively about other foreigners, partying, shagging, meeting and leaving friends - it's also (and hopefully even more so) about the local people and the local culture. And that is something the movie does touch on only marginally- which is in the end why I can not really relate to the movie, despite
being a backpacker.Like I said in the beginning: it's not a great movie, but it's going to be difficult to make it better. If you are a traveler (or have been), I recommend picking it up to go down memory lane for a while. If you are considering doing a RTW, most definitely watch this movie, it'll give you some confidence. But if you want to experience the backpacking feeling: grab you pack and hit the road.