Godfrey Reggio turns his attention towards communities across Asia, Africa, the Middle East and South America. Its title is drawn from the Hopi language and describes a way of life that grows by consuming the life forces of others.
Powaqqatsi explores the encounter between traditional ways of living and global development driven by mechanisation, consumption and economic growth. The film expresses a profound fascination with human labour, craftsmanship, community and ritual, alongside an unease about what disappears when different cultures are drawn into the same idea of progress.
Warmer and more human in tone than Koyaanisqatsi, the film gives bodies, movement and faces an almost monumental force. Philip Glass’ music combines repeating structures with voices, rhythms and instruments from several traditions. The result celebrates cultural diversity while reflecting on what is lost when societies are shaped by the same economic and technological forces.
