Stretching along the Mediterranean coastline, the Rif Mountains are home to steep, rugged slopes where cannabis fields flourish—a testament to the dedication and resilience of the Amazigh (Berber) people, who have refined this craft over generations. The meticulous process of extracting hashish embodies not only technical expertise but also deep cultural and social significance.
The film moves beyond merely presenting facts, inviting viewers to reflect on the universal human quest for purpose and belonging, even under challenging circumstances.
The Rif region has long been a symbol of resilience and resistance. In the early 20th century, it was the site of the Rif War (1921–1926), where the Amazigh leader Abd el-Krim spearheaded a rebellion against Spanish and French colonization. Today, the region remains politically and socially significant, grappling with ongoing discussions about development, governance, and autonomy.
For the farmers, hashish represents more than a commercial product—it is a lifeline in a landscape defined by limited resources and scarce economic opportunities. However, this deeply rooted tradition exists in a delicate balance between pride and stigma, navigating the legal and societal challenges that underscore the complexities of the region. Issues such as poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and the legal status of cannabis cultivation further compound these challenges.
The region also faces significant environmental concerns, including deforestation, overgrazing, and soil erosion, which threaten the delicate ecological balance of the area. Despite these challenges, the people of the Rif continue to persevere, their efforts embodying a profound sense of resilience and belonging.
What stood out most from this experience was the realization that meaning in life—regardless of geography or occupation—is shaped by connection, effort, and purpose. In the Rif Mountains, the daily labor of these communities reflects not just survival but an enduring relationship with the land, their craft, and a shared sense of identity.
Yuri Henrique, 27 years old, originally from Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, graduated in Audiovisual Studies from UNA BH. From a very young age, he was deeply involved with the skateboarding universe and the cultural movements surrounding it. For the past six years, Yuri has been living in Lisbon, where he has established his career as a filmmaker, traveling the world to shoot and edit a wide variety of projects.
Currently, Yuri is an active member of two creative collectives: Pixado Filmes, a partnership with his lifelong brother, Antonio (Gumi), and Ignorant Archive, a collaborative platform for audiovisual productions operating across several European countries.
