Bitter Honey

Bitter Honey is a 2014 documentary directed by the accomplished Robert Lemelson. The documentary provides a revealing look into the traditional practice of polygamy in Bali through the experiences of three different families. Bitter Honey artfully unfolds the cultural, societal, and emotional layers of the institution revealing an inescapably complex milieu in which conventional concepts of love, freedom, and family confluence.

The documentary captures real life stories of three Balinese women: Luh Putu Anggreni, Suci Ati, and Darma. Each wife narrates her story and provides an intimate perspective on the unique and individual experience of how the tradition has shaped her life along with the challenges and sacrifices she has had to face as a result. Amidst the backdrop of a lush and beautiful Bali, these riveting personal tales deliver an on-the-ground view of a cultural practice at the crossroads of custom and change.

The brilliant filmmaker Lemelson expertly juxtaposes the Bali often seen by outsiders, depicted through gorgeous scenery and seductive rituals, against the harsh reality faced by the three women. We are taken on a journey full of contradictions that challenge our perceptions of marriage, religion and societal norms in Bali.

Each story in Bitter Honey is told in a straightforward style, maintaining respect for the subjects and tradition while unapologetically exposing the intricate web of love, power, manipulation, and economic survival woven within the practice of polygamy. Luh Putu Anggreni's tale is a heartbreaking account of a young woman trapped in an unhappy marriage, battling frustrations and longing for elusive happiness. Suci Ati, on the other hand, presents a different angle as a second wife trying to carve out her space in a complicated family structure, while Darma’s story takes us on a powerful journey of survival and resistance.

Lemelson's scrupulous attention to detail and thorough ethnographic approach provides an in-depth look at a cultural aspect that has been kept in the shadows for centuries. By bringing the stories of these women to light, Lemelson masterfully shows that the tradition of polygamy in Bali is far from an isolated practice, but rather, a mirror reflecting broader societal issues such as gender inequality, economic disparities and the struggle against traditional norms.

Through a series of candid interviews and poignant scenes, Bitter Honey allows its viewers to experience up close the complex dynamics, power imbalances, and emotional toll of a deep-rooted tradition challenging its relevance and acceptance in the modern world. It’s a striking exploration of how traditional practices navigate the turbulent waters of evolving societal norms and changing perspectives.

Throughout the film, the fierce resilience of the three women stands as a salient point of strength even amidst their dire circumstances. Each wife, in her own way, battles to maintain her identity, dignity, and sanity in the face of seismic familial and societal pressures. Whether they choose acceptance, resistance or a delicate balance of both, these women become embodiments of endurance and adaptability —a testament to the paradoxical human strength and frailty in turbulent societal landscapes.

The cinematic style of Bitter Honey is both gripping and respectful. Lemelson lets the women tell their stories in their own words, and his immersive storytelling style allows audiences to feel as though they are a part of the narrators' journeys, giving a voice to these women while never exploitatively showcasing their plights for shock value.

The documentary does a sterling job of avoiding judgment or critique, leaving the audience to ponder on the complexity of the situations presented. It’s an unforgettable cinematic journey that brings forth the universal themes of human independence, resilience, and the pursuit of happiness as they intersect with traditional rituals.

In conclusion, Bitter Honey isn't just a documentary about polygamy in Bali; it's a rare and insightful exploration into the human spirit in the face of daunting cultural traditions and societal norms. It's an homage to the priceless resilience of women across cultures and an eye-opening testament to how people grapple with the tradition—as both a constraint and protective mantle—in the face of evolving societal demands. Bitter Honey reminds us all of a universal truth—behind every tradition lies human hearts pulsating with their own unique story.