SHORTS: LA LAGUNA + A HOUSE WITHOUT SNAKES

La Laguna (USA/Mexico, 38 min., Aaron Schock) Twelve-year-old Yu’uk and his younger brother José live in the rainforests of southern Mexico, seemingly protected from the concerns of modern life, and spend their days exploring the lagoon that is their homeland. But, as with many indigenous communities, their way of life is increasingly being threatened. For Yu’uk, the challenge comes in seeking education, and leaving his family and community may prove necessary to securing their future.

A House Without Snakes (USA/Botswana, 29 min., Daniel Koehler) Spurred by relocation from their traditional homeland, two young Bushmen face the pull between ancestral traditions and modern opportunities. Still living on their ancient land with his father, Kitsiso dreams of a home of comfort, while in the more modern village of New Xade, Ketelelo feels a tangible sense of loss.