The new documentary “Héritage,” written, directed, and edited by the Catalan Simon Ruiz, has just deciphered questions of identity. Images captured in the Amazon and the Catalan region will be available on YouTube on May 27, 2026.
At 33 years old, the photojournalist and filmmaker from Perpignan, Simon Ruiz, has been exploring the same question for over a decade: what shapes the identity of a people? After his first documentary filmed in Peru about violence and bravery, he will release his new film “Héritage” on May 27, between the Brazilian Amazon and the stands of USAP.
For three years, Ruiz has been working with the Gavião, an indigenous community in the Brazilian Amazon. They organize traditional sports games annually to pass on their language, culture, and rituals to younger generations. Ruiz participated in these events and reflected on the importance of sports in preserving culture and identity.
“There is both the quest for identity as an individual and as a community,” he added.
Furthermore, Ruiz’s personal adoption story plays a significant role in the documentary, connecting his personal history to a broader reflection on heritage, belonging, and transmission of identity.
In addition to his work with the Gavião, Ruiz explores the connection between this community and the Catalan region through rugby. The documentary weaves together imagery from the Amazon, scenes from USAP matches, and his personal journey. The film concludes with a symbolic scene of jersey exchange between Ruiz, a former USAP player, and a young Gavião member. The overarching message of the documentary is that identity is the culmination of all our experiences, knowledge, and ties.
This self-financed project marks one of Ruiz’s final films produced independently. For future projects in Greenland and Asia, he hopes to establish partnerships. Despite the challenges, Ruiz remains committed to telling stories that bring people together and spark curiosity.
The documentary will premiere on May 27 on Simon Ruiz’s YouTube channel @simonruiz.documentaire. This project is supported by the National Rugby League and USAP.
