Deep Dive: Walking Under Water (2014)
Film Lens

Walking Under Water focuses on the Badjao people, oceanic nomads living off the coast of Borneo. The film centers on Alexan, one of the few remaining individuals who remembers the traditional fishing and free diving practices of his ancestors. He is committed to teaching these skills to his ten-year-old nephew, Sari, who shares a strong connection to the ocean.
As the narrative unfolds, the film contrasts the Badjao's traditional lifestyle with the pressures of modernity, particularly the allure of a nearby tourist resort. The documentary captures the tension between preserving cultural heritage and adapting to changing circumstances, emphasizing the potential loss of their unique way of life.
Why Watch
- •Meet Alexan and Sari, guardians of Badjao traditions.
- •See the stunning waters off Borneo's coast.
- •Find out about the impact of tourism on local cultures.
Did You Know
•The film features Alexan, a Badjao elder, and his nephew Sari.
•Walking Under Water was directed by Eliza Kubarska in 2014.
•The documentary has a runtime of 77 minutes.
•The Badjao people have lived as oceanic nomads for generations.
Perfect For
Cultural preservationMarine life enthusiastsBorneo travel