Gregg Jaden, Welcome to World Film Festival in Cannes. Congratulations on running in the Best Spiritual/Mystical Film and Best Director Documentary Short categories. What in the cross-cutting creative process has enabled you to branch out of marketing into the world of documentaries?
Thank you so much. I am honored to be a part of your festival, among many other notable filmmakers.
The creative process was to keep it simple. I directed the film to tell the story as simply as possible and tried to let audiences understand what it’s like to have a voodoo curse. I felt the only way is to show the Western audience using visuals to help them know what voodoo is and what happens to victims of these types of curses. The Curse Effect is an entirely different world, one Westerners might need to be more familiar with, and a worthwhile story to share.
Your film shows that “the world of voodoo is not limited to the Afro-Caribbean community and backwater southern regions of America”. These rituals considered implausible or unrealistic, also described as in the realm of fairy tales, do exist in Indonesia. How long did it take you to set up your investigation and, further down the line, to gain the local community’s trust to investigate the voodoo culture?
Gaining the trust of the Dayak tribe was an enormous challenge. They don’t have cell phones or the internet. Messages were passed from my contacts to their contacts, and discussions happened this way for several months of back and forth. The tribe had to approve me based on their ancestor’s messages about my energy and if they could trust me to tell this story. I learned that nobody gets to film the Dayak tribe this way. Through my travels in Indonesia, I always heard these stories of Voodoo, whether I was in a taxi, talking to locals, or even eating local food. It’s a way the culture handles disputes among themselves.
You take us to Borneo, where the Dayak tribe is revered and feared. It is a tribe that invokes dark magic and voodoo. The Dayak’s voodoo curses are known in Indonesia. We hear of the case of Keanu Hardianus, who suddenly falls ill. Everyone believes he was cursed. He was diagnosed with liver cancer. His family decided to turn away the doctor’s proposal to operate and to call on witch doctors. Tell us more, and also, how and why were you drawn to this story?
In my travels, I’ve encountered countless narratives steeped in the mystique of voodoo curses. Whether I found myself in the back of a taxi or sipping coffee in a remote café, the locals would share these tales, casting voodoo as an invisible justice. In some cultures, disputes escalate to fisticuffs, while others engage in bitter rivalries, but in Borneo, Indonesia, voodoo serves as the swiftest mediator of conflicts. What truly captivated me, however, was a tale of survival against an unfathomable malevolence—a story that defied the darkest of curses. The intricate details of this narrative held me spellbound, and the prospect of capturing the enigmatic Suku Dayak culture on film was an opportunity that whispered ‘once in a lifetime.’ I recognized the near-impossible challenge before me, yet the allure of unraveling the veiled mysteries surrounding voodoo’s effects on its victims compelled me to embark on this journey.
Q4. Hailed as dangerous and ready to attack at a moment’s notice, the Dayak people appear to you as “kind, considerate and environmentally conscious”, a tribe where everyone respects the land and each other. Why this dichotomy between myth and reality?
I believe that the centuries of voodoo traditions and the justice they have cultivated have deeply permeated this culture. I witnessed a society profoundly dedicated to survival and the preservation of their jungle habitat. They usually use voodoo rituals for good intentions to help their tribe but some bad members learn how to use this with dark intentions. However, when someone dares to cross their path or threatens their customs, traditions, or safety, they harness not only the protection of their ancestors but also their innate determination to safeguard themselves, much like any species would, wielding voodoo as their formidable weapon.
I believe that fostering such communal beliefs not only helps ensure a low crime-environment within their community but also instills a deep sense of self-respect and reverence for the land. Additionally, it forges a strong camaraderie among them, uniting them to shield one another from potential threats posed by outsiders.
You found the Dayaks to be in danger. Their customary rights are being ignored, and palm oil companies are pressing to evict them from their land. Their chief says: “If the forest is extinct, if nature is damaged, then the custom itself will be damaged too. We all need to take care of the environment and balance our lives. Because if we destroy the forests, what will be the fate of our children and grandchildren? (…) If our earth is damaged, then we will all be damaged. We must reach common ground with our government.” What are the chances that this common ground can be reached? As we speak, the COP28 summit is underway. Isn’t it about time for true action for the tribes and communities of the world?
I’m uncertain about the extent to which their voices will be acknowledged. Their understanding is rooted in the traditional aspects of their culture, which is integral to the evolutionary journey of their people. However, from what I know they lack the legal expertise required for negotiations concerning land entitlement and protection. It’s disheartening that, at times, harmonious coexistence among humans remains elusive. Throughout this process, I have strived to maintain a neutral stance, guiding the Chief to express his genuine sentiments. I truly believe that, with sincere efforts, they can all collaborate harmoniously to assert their rightful place in the world.
Back to the suffering of Keanu. In the end, Keanu is saved after an intense night at death’s door. The healers had put themselves in a protective bubble to throw the evil away to another world. The healer advised Keanu to not break the rules and not let his guard down. Keanu says he knew who/what made him sick, and that is linked to the fact he was at his lowest point in life. He can now appreciate life. He does not want to take revenge. The magic worked and took revenge on the man who’d cursed him. Is the healer’s advice transferrable to our Western cultures? How can we be inspired to change?
Excellent question. Absolutely, the guidance offered is universally applicable to all of humanity. We possess an inherent moral compass that influences our choices and behaviors, irrespective of our cultural backgrounds. Reflect on the numerous instances in your own life where you’ve felt a sense of karmic equilibrium or received signs from a higher force directing you towards or away from someone or something for your protection.
The words “don’t break the rules” by the healer I interpreted as don’t be misled by ego and away from your moral compass to hurt others. Modern Western culture has, in many ways, grown a little spiritually detached, nobody I know meditates and with our constant use of internet-connected devices disconnecting us from the ourselves it makes it difficult to live in the present moment and our spiritual essence. I believe that nurturing our spiritual connection is essential, recognizing the presence of a soul energy within us that harbors profound wisdom and truth.
Tell us about any upcoming documentary and cinema projects you might have?
I wish I could. I have another topic that is shocking and have the ability to film up close and personal. But have to keep confidential until the production phase.
And finally, what is your vision of post-Covid cinema in a short statement?
It’s a wonderful feeling to resume living life. Cinema holds a special place in our hearts. Each day is a precious gift, and I believe that dwelling in fear only robs us of the invaluable moments we have. Life is short it’s best to live now.
BIO
Biography of director – Gregg Jaden
Jaden is an established photographer, filmmaker, storyteller, and explorer. His roots are from advertising agency projects evolving into film. Gregg’s ability to capitalize on unforeseen opportunities has helped him work with some of the most prestigious Fortune 500 brands. Through social media channels, he has shared with millions of people to demonstrate unique perspectives of timeless visuals for clients and projects.
Jaden has a strong passion for storytelling, directing, and cinematography. After persevering with 2 NDEs (near-death experiences) in 2009 and again in 2015, he continues to test the boundaries of his creative process by incorporating deeper meaning and spiritual elements into his work. He works closely with organizations to protect wildlife, conserve our oceans, and coach people in spiritual transformation. A combination of outdoor adventure, travel, and people, Jaden is known for world travel storytelling and epic landscapes. His work has been featured in various magazines and online publications. He is always up for a travel adventure and usually explores some of the most exciting places to create timeless visuals. Jaden has been involved in numerous charities, such as @LonelyWhale and Anthony Robbins Foundation, and volunteer clean-up crews after natural disasters.
Jaden believes artistic expression is one of the most significant forms of contribution to our planet. He has an undeniable passion for capturing moments and storytelling using visual mediums. What inspires him most is how photography can transform the ordinary to the extraordinary while leaving an impression on people’s lives.
©2024 Isabelle Rouault-Röhlich