Synopsis
"Becoming a Man in Melanesia" follows the epic ordeals of two young men who live on sepaarate islands. And though they will never meet each other, they share a common, singular goal : to make the difficult passage into manhood. Each will face a grueling initiation ritual. Success will mean new status and responsabilities within each boy's tribe - but success isn't guaranteed. If they fail, they will remain children within their community. To achieve this adult status in Melanesia, Junior from Kontu island in Papua has to capture a shark armed only with a lasso and a propeller, whereas Wabak from Pentecost island in Vanuatu has to jump from a wooden tower, his ankle bound with thick vines…Two ordeals, each with the same goal : becoming a man!


Prizes and Awards
1. Dec 2006: Export Award for the French documentary most broadcasted abroad; 2. 2005: Grand Jury Prize at the Oceanian Documentary Film Festival (FIFO)