Highly emotional responses from the audience at the premieres in Curacao and Bonaire. “This movie was more than about architecture. It was also about social themes, the soul of a place and the local culture. And how Lyongo incorporates that into the built environment, is special to see”. We reflect on two successful premieres.
The documentary Kombiná: Lyongo’s search for contemporary Caribbean architecture, premiered on December 5th in Curacao and shortly after in Bonaire on December 8. These screenings not only drew enthusiastic audiences but also evoked powerful emotions and sparked meaningful discussions.
A recurring sentiment was the appreciation for seeing the diversity among the Caribbean islands. As one viewer put it: “It was beautiful to see all the islands and the differences between them. This film illuminated how each island deals with challenges surrounding modernization and preserving tradition.”
A sold-out venue in Curacao
At the Movies Otrobanda in Willemstad, the documentary was sold out entirely with 250 tickets purchased. Under the guidance of moderator Fadoua Alaoui, we received many positive reactions from the audience. Especially for going beyond architecture to address broader topics such as socio-cultural issues, cultural identity and the effects of colonialism.
For Lyongo, this documentary is both deeply personal and aspirational: “I’m glad we had conversations in the film with people who are shaping the future of the built environment in the Dutch Caribbean. This film is an honest and open story about who I am and where I come from. I wanted to show the journey—how to design from the heart and to follow your gut feeling. Especially for young designers. To inspire them, showing how tough the road can be, the obstacles you face, and how to keep on going.”
Afterward, the audience shared how profoundly the film had moved them, with some even brought to tears. Reflecting on this, Lyongo said: “It was special to see the effect, particularly here in Curacao, where our office is located and where I have lived a large part of my life. It was certainly exciting to hear what people think of my work—and of the personal stories about my family that I share in the film.”
Before leaving the venue, the team was approached for an interview with the local television station Nos Pais, where the question arised when the film might be aired for an even broader audience…
An intimate screening in Bonaire
On Bonaire, the screening at Empire Cinema brought together a smaller group of about 50 people. Despite the more intimate setting, the reactions were no less impactful. Viewers were moved by the documentary’s blend of personal narratives, compelling projects, and the critical questions it raised.
The film highlighted the critical role of architecture in supporting communities. An example that resonated deeply with viewers was the story of the school in the Middle Region of St. Maarten. For seven years, a vulnerable group of children is placed in a school building of another school – far from their own neighborhood, disrupting their sense of belonging and stability. This case sparked conversations on how architecture can foster social cohesion.
Lyongo captured the essence of this challenge, saying: “Feeling alienated in your own country leads to disconnection. It changes your sense of belonging. We need to care for one another and create spaces where everyone feels at home. For people who have lived here for a long time and people who are new. At the same time, we must guard against social inequality as the population and number of tourists grows in the Caribbean. Make sure that the prosperity it brings is shared so that everyone benefits.”
Moving forward
One attendee expressed a wish for an extended run: “I wish there were more showings. I’d tell so many more people to come and see it!” These types of heartfelt reactions demonstrate its profound impact. Plus, it underscores the need for broader accessibility. A goal that we hope to achieve through various film festivals in 2025…
We look forward to the next premieres – in Amsterdam, St Maarten and Saba.
