Barefoot Road Trip Through Guinea: A Cinematic Journey in Search of Local Filmmaking Roots Thierno Souleymane Diallo, a Guinean film director, sets out on an extraordinary barefoot journey across the diverse landscapes of his homeland. This unique road trip is not just about exploring the physical terrain but also delving deep into the rich collective memory and cultural heritage of Guinea's local filmmaking community. The adventure aims to uncover the first film ever made by a Guinean filmmaker, a quest that blends history with the present. Each step of the journey serves as both a means to an end and a destination in itself, highlighting the significance of the process over the mere achievement of finding the film. The trip itself becomes a profound narrative, a story woven with threads of memory, tradition, and the fragile yet resilient nature of celluloid. In this captivating cinematic adventure, the concept of existence extends beyond just the act of viewing; it encompasses creation, preservation, and the ongoing dialogue between past and present. Can a film truly exist if it has never been seen? This question serves as the philosophical backbone of Diallo's journey, inviting viewers to ponder the essence of art in an age where digital media often overshadows traditional forms. As Diallo travels barefoot across Guinea, he documents his findings with both a camera and a pen. The film reel, once thought to be fragile and potentially lost, takes on new dimensions as it becomes a porous medium capable of holding not only images but also stories, memories, and the very essence of cultural identity. This expanded narrative captures the spirit of Diallo's journey while emphasizing its multifaceted nature—a blend of historical exploration, personal discovery, and artistic expression.