Romany
Often pushed to the margins of mainstream society, Romany Traveller communities have long been shaped by stereotypes and misrepresentation. Romany women, in particular, have too often been reduced on screen to narrow roles that fail to reflect the depth and complexity of their lives.
The film follows Lisa Smith, a Welsh Romany filmmaker determined to challenge these narratives through her work. Moving beyond traditional expectations, Lisa uses film to celebrate the richness, beauty, and resilience of Romany culture and identity.
Returning to her family roots in Carmarthenshire, she speaks with relatives about their shared upbringing and the experiences that continue to inspire her filmmaking and cultural advocacy.
Lisa Smith is a filmmaker, curator, and cultural advocate dedicated to advancing Romani representation in cinema and the arts. From 2020 to 2024, she curated AKE DIKHEA? – The International Festival of Romani Film, a pioneering platform that championed Romani filmmakers and stories from across Europe. Recently, she joined the Critical Film and Image Hub, contributing to new conversations on authorship, representation, and visual culture. As a filmmaker, Lisa has been involved in the production of several notable works, including The Angry Bird, Romany, and other films that challenge stereotypes and bring nuanced, authentic perspectives on Romani identity and contemporary life. Through her work as a curator, producer, and consultant, she continues to create spaces where Romani voices can be seen, heard, and celebrated on screen and beyond.
