In 1999, Lorena’s parents left their lives in Colombia for a fresh start in the United States. 25 years later, they received the opportunity to return to the country they once had to leave behind.
The Journey Back Home is an experimental documentary exploring themes of isolation, cultural preservation, migration, latino resilience, and hope. Guided by a sit-down interview with her parents, the film reflects on the question Gama grew up asking: “If Colombia was so great, why did they have to leave?" Through their memories, the film explores the decisions that motivated their migration and the emotional weight of returning home.
Primarily narrated in Spanish, Lorena uses typography to integrate bilingual design— visually and symbolically framing her personal experience as a first-generation Colombian-American. The film blends interview footage with family archives—including observational montage, home videos, photo albums, and a custom typeface created using her parents’ handwriting. The Journey Back Home’s soundtrack features classic Colombian vallenato songs the artist connects with— showcasing the infusion of latino culture while growing up in the United States.
A fifteen-minute film; it invites the viewer to reflect on displacement, belonging, and the lasting impact U.S. immigration policies have on immigrant families.
Typography: Prody, Calderón, Obviously, OH No Type.
Full film available upon request.
