French-Irish filmmaker Alexander Murphy makes his feature documentary debut with Goodbye Sisters, a compelling narrative that transports viewers from the bustling streets of Kathmandu to the awe-inspiring heights of the Himalayas. The film follows the poignant story of sisters Jamuna, 21, and her younger sister Anmuna, who embark on what may be their final journey to the mountains to harvest yarsagumba, a rare and valuable fungus-insect hybrid. The documentary will have its world premiere on November 27, 2023, as part of the international documentary competition at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival.
Murphy’s film captures the essence of family, resilience, and the harsh realities of life in the Himalayas. The sisters’ mission to collect yarsagumba, often referred to as “Himalayan viagra,” symbolizes hope for a better future. Selling the harvested fungus in the city could provide Jamuna with the financial means to support her family and pursue her dream of studying in Japan. The festival’s promotional material describes the film as “both heart-wrenching and uplifting,” highlighting its emotional depth.
The inspiration for Goodbye Sisters emerged from Murphy’s fascination with yarsagumba. He was struck by the sight of numerous tents in the mountains, filled with individuals collecting this precious resource, which has become more valuable than gold. “There are hundreds of tents up in the mountains, with people collecting this magic mushroom worth more than gold,” he remarked in an interview. Initially hesitant to focus on a mushroom documentary, Murphy sought a character-driven narrative that could embody the profound stories surrounding yarsagumba.
In 2019, he ventured to Kathmandu and then trekked to altitudes of up to 5,000 meters. During this journey, he met Jamuna, a bright young woman who stood out with her intelligence and ability to communicate in English. Murphy spent several days with her family, uncovering the challenges they faced, including their past experiences in a deceptive school and orphanage that exploited children.
The sisters’ resilience captivated Murphy, prompting him to develop a fictionalized script inspired by Jamuna’s story. Over the years, their connection deepened, and in 2023, Jamuna expressed her determination to return to her village for a final farewell to her parents while harvesting yarsagumba to help fund her studies in Japan. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of their filming adventure.
The yarsagumba serves as a metaphorical golden ticket for the sisters, representing financial stability. “There are all these human beings up there in the mountains for several months trying to collect this tiny mushroom that’s worth so much money,” Murphy explained. This annual harvest represents the only income for many families, leading to increased competition and risks, as urban dwellers venture into the mountains for a chance to collect the valuable fungus.
Murphy’s narrative diverges from traditional portrayals of migration. Rather than focusing solely on success stories abroad, he emphasizes the emotional farewell and sacrifices made by individuals like Jamuna. She poignantly tells her aging parents that she may not return for several years, illustrating the profound impact of such decisions.
Throughout the documentary, Murphy prioritizes authenticity in portraying Jamuna’s journey. “The most important thing was the relationship I had with the girls, and especially with Jamuna,” he stated. He ensured that Jamuna’s voice and experiences shaped the film’s narrative, allowing for a genuine representation of their struggles.
The majestic Himalayas also play a significant role in the film. Murphy described the challenges of shooting in such harsh conditions, likening the experience to working with a subject that oscillates between beauty and danger. “Imagine shooting every day with someone who’s completely bipolar,” he remarked, reflecting on the unpredictable mountain weather that often changed drastically within moments.
Murphy faced physical challenges during filming, losing seven kilograms in five weeks due to the demanding conditions. The team often trekked for up to 16 hours to capture essential shots, a testament to their commitment to telling this story authentically.
An emotionally charged moment occurred when Jamuna’s sister expressed gratitude for the opportunity to share her story. “Thanks to you, I was able to talk about certain things that I never talked about to my family,” she said, highlighting the documentary’s impact on their lives and the importance of addressing taboo subjects.
Murphy emphasizes that experiencing Goodbye Sisters in a cinema is essential to fully appreciate its impact. “The film should never be seen on a small screen because there was a lot of work to bring the spectators up there with me,” he explained. The editing and sound design were meticulously crafted to immerse viewers in the heights of the Himalayas.
Although Jamuna and her family have not yet seen the documentary, Murphy aims to provide them with the cinematic experience they deserve. He recalls how Jamuna’s father expressed pride in the story being told. “People in his village were like, ‘they’re never going to make a film and come back’,” he recounted, indicating the skepticism faced by the family. Murphy hopes to return to the village to screen the film and demonstrate that their story has been successfully shared.
In conclusion, Murphy’s dedication to portraying the sisters’ journey authentically shines through in Goodbye Sisters. He seeks to highlight the remarkable resilience of Jamuna and Anmuna while shedding light on the complex realities faced by many families in the Himalayas. By sharing their story, Murphy aims not only to celebrate their strength but also to challenge societal perceptions within their community.