Piemule (Jana Sevcikova, Czechoslovakia, 1991). In a remote corner of Romania a community of Czech descendents live, still attached to their roots-now generations past-in another country, and cut off from any input that would change that fixation. In conversation they compare their existence to that of the pigs and cows with whom they share "this wasteland." Bitterness and despair reveal a common notion of guilt-a sense of original sin for which they are being punished by their exile over many generations. This strongly visual film belongs with the works of Peleshian, Sousar, and others who tend to explore the "heart of darkness" in rural Eastern Europe. (40 mins, In Czech with English subtitles, Color, 3/4" video, projected) Djembefola (Laurent Chevallier, France/Guinea, 1991). Mamady Keita is one of the greatest djembe (African drum) players, now living in Brussells, having left his native Guinea when the Sekou Touré government fell. A djembefola is, in Keita's words, "one who makes the djembe speak," and this film is alive with the voice of its marvelous music, as well as the movements and songs of the Djoliba Ballet with which Keita performed. Djembefola accompanies Keita on his return to Guinea, to the Ballet, and most movingly to the distant village of his birth. There, family await him in anger and joy-anger at his 26-year absence, joy at the mere sight of him. Following a reunion in which the conflicting feelings are delicately sorted out, an extraordinary fireside dance is performed. Through Keita's memories the film explores the way in which art permeates every aspect of local life: the ballet was an expression of commitment to the revolution, and music and song still accompany the rituals of farming. "Whatever we do, we do joyfully," Keita says, proud of the culture of which he nevertheless discovers himself to be an outsider. (67 mins, Color, In French with English subtitles, 3/4" video, projected)