WILLEMSTAD - After a year and a half on the international film festival circuit, Curaçaoan filmmakers David van Delden and Juan-Carlos Goilo have released their experimental short film Laman online. The film features an entirely female cast and explores the concept of “organic filmmaking” — a creative process that allows women to freely express their perspectives on femininity without the influence of the so-called “male gaze.”

According to Goilo, the filmmakers intentionally chose an unconventional approach, stripping away the dominant male voice from both the storytelling and the creative process. “We experimented with creating organic settings where women could openly express their ideas about womanhood,” Goilo wrote in a post on LinkedIn.

The project was produced without a budget, relying instead on collaboration and mentorship from a team of female co-directors and advisors. “You taught us to remain critical at all times — about what we include and what we leave out,” Goilo added.

All-Female Cast from Curaçao

The film stars several talented local actresses, including Vali Leonora, Juna Leocaria, Kiex, Ellie Laker, Silvienne Martie, Raiza K., Mimoushka Lieuw, Melany Cardose, and Candice van Delden.

Laman tells the story of a woman dressed in white waiting at a deserted bus stop on the outskirts of the city. When she boards a local bus, she observes the gradual transformation of the harsh urban landscape into lush, green surroundings — a metaphorical journey from confinement to renewal.

“Even though she has taken this journey many times before, she is always completely absorbed by it,” the filmmakers describe. “She is fully aware that each time it brings her something new — a new insight, a new joy, a new ending, and a new beginning.”

The release of Laman marks another milestone for Curaçao’s emerging film community, highlighting local talent and the growing presence of women in the island’s creative industries.