La Graciosa

Millions of Germans know the Canary Islands – but few are familiar with the tiny island of La Graciosa. With LA GRACIOSA – CANARY ISLAND DREAMS, Karin Kaper and Dirk Szuszies fulfill a long-held personal dream. The filmmakers have known this smallest of the Canary Islands for over 30 years and have now witnessed dramatic changes. The island is a unique microcosm: Caleta de Sebo is the only inhabited village with 600 residents. The film vividly portrays the transformation from a once poor fishing village, where everyone helped each other, to a community increasingly dominated by tourism. The film's protagonists are various residents of the village, with whom the filmmakers have developed a trusting relationship over the years. Strong women and their significance play a crucial role, as do people who have fallen in love with La Graciosa and settled there.

Even in this paradise on earth, conflicts exist. Some of the film's contributors, who are committed to nature and environmental protection on the island, are subjected to attacks from those who consider all sources of income legitimate. Furthermore, the very personal and fascinating life stories of the Gracioseras and Gracioseros illuminate socially relevant issues: gender equality, the importance of local self-government, the protection of nature and the environment, the development of alternative forms of environmentally sustainable tourism, climate change, questions of social cohesion, respect for the life achievements of the older generation, and the loss of traditions.