The Rhythm of Sarrow - Directed by Emily Shen

2 hours ago
1 min read

Project Type: Documentary

Project Title: The Rhythm of Sarrow 哀歌

Brief Synopsis: From September 19 to December 13, 2021, the Cumbre Vieja volcano on the southern part of La Palma erupted for 85 days, becoming the longest and most destructive eruption ever recorded on the island. This film was created as part of a collaborative workshop inspired by filmmaker Werner Herzog, centered around the theme “Under the Volcano.” By the time I arrived, the disaster had already unfolded. The island was quiet; many residents had fallen into silence, yet an indescribable sorrow lingered in the air.During my time there, I kept returning to one question: How can people thousands of miles away—those who have never experienced such despair—come to truly feel the pain of others? I believe that empathy is essential. This short film is an attempt to bridge that distance—not only to witness suffering, but also to reflect on how we confront life and death, and how we come to understand impermanence.

Runtime: 08:08

Completion Date: January 2026

Country of Origin: TaiWan & China

Language: English / Spanish