«Lingua Eterna» follows a group of young musicians from the canton of Grisons who consciously cultivate and creatively develop their Rhaeto-Romanic language and culture. Between tradition and modernity, a multi-layered portrait emerges, presenting a generation that confidently embraces its heritage.
The project combines documentary observations with staged moments to reveal inner worlds. It explores the meaning of home in a globalised world and shows how artistic creation becomes an expression of cultural identity, in which the minority language Romansh symbolises both fragility and strength. «Lingua Eterna» is a filmic search for permanence amid change – poetically, politically and personally.
«‹Lingua Eterna› is an audiovisually impressive declaration of love for Rhaeto-Romanic music and language. Arno Thöni has created a filmically powerful celebration of the diversity of this endangered language and the way it is used and passed on by young musicians. Subtle metaphors and an idiosyncratic, skilful execution (including social media) round off this achievement and lend the film universal relevance.» – Excerpt supporting statement of the Subject Area Cast / Audiovisual Media
«I see my future role as a mediator in visual storytelling.» – Arno Thöni
