Forget everything you think you know about nature documentaries! Prepare to be swept away by Super Nature, a film that's less about statistics and more about sparking a feeling, a connection. Imagine a global love letter to our planet, captured in a way that might remind you of your own family's cherished home movies. But what makes this film truly unique?
Directed by Ed Sayers, Super Nature is a feature debut that prioritizes visual and auditory beauty over hard data. The film utilizes Super 8 footage – hence the clever title! – collected from around the world, showcasing the wonders of nature and wildlife and why their protection is so crucial.
The film's synopsis, as presented on the website of the 69th BFI London Film Festival (LFF), where it premiered, poses a thought-provoking question: “How do you make a film about the natural world that’s environmentally sound?” The answer, it seems, lies in community. Sayers sent cameras to collaborators across the globe, weaving together a mosaic of intimate observations of natural landscapes. This resulted in a lush, deeply personal ode to nature, offering a truly captivating cinematic experience.
Sayers, with a background in directing commercials and music videos, including a short film Goldfish featuring Michael Fassbender, brings a fresh perspective to the subject.
Produced by Seven Productions and Grasp the Nettle Films, with co-production from Forest of Black, Super Nature was brought to life with funding from the BFI Doc Society Fund, Screen Scotland, Cinelab Film and Digital, Foghorn Features, and Autlook Filmsales, which is handling international sales. The production team includes Rebecca Wolff of Grasp the Nettle Films, Sayers, Beth Allan, and executive producer Asif Kapadia.
BFI Distribution has already secured the film for theatrical release in the U.K. and Ireland. This is a significant move, hinting at the film's potential to reach a wide audience.
Sayers and producer Wolff discussed their approach with THR's Georg Szalai, emphasizing community building and a focus on hope rather than fear.
Super Nature deliberately moves away from alarming facts and figures, aiming instead to evoke an emotional response. This approach is central to its mission.
Wolff highlights BFI Distribution as an ideal partner, planning to launch the film at BFI South Bank and then distribute it widely across the U.K. and Ireland. They are enthusiastic about bringing the film to the big screen, recognizing its beauty and potential to connect with audiences.
Sayers echoes this sentiment, noting that BFI Distribution is a perfect fit, with a keen interest in reaching diverse audiences – film lovers, celluloid enthusiasts, and nature admirers alike. They share the filmmakers' desire to spark conversations, even around the breakfast table.
The film's creators hope Super Nature will gently remind viewers of our increasingly fragile connection with nature. They aim to inspire viewers to nurture this vital relationship, believing that even small actions can contribute to a better world. This message is especially relevant in today's divided climate.
The reception at the LFF cinemas was overwhelmingly positive. Wolff describes the premiere atmosphere as peaceful, filled with love for the film and its message. Many viewers were moved, some even to tears, in a positive way.
Sayers reveals that the film is achieving more than they dared to hope for, touching people on a deeper, subconscious level. For him, the film is fundamentally about connection.
The balance between facts, warnings, and encouragement was carefully considered. Wolff explains that the team wanted to celebrate what we are fighting for rather than what we are fighting against, creating a sense of celebration.
Sayers emphasizes the importance of connection, celebrating people's relationship with nature worldwide.
The film's global scope is truly ambitious. It features contributions from 40 Super 8 collaborators, including both professional filmmakers and local enthusiasts, across 25 countries and five continents.
Sayers stresses that the film is designed to inspire active hope, empowering viewers to believe in their ability to make a difference without feeling overwhelmed.
And this is the part most people miss... The film embodies the spirit of Jane Goodall's message: every action, every moment, impacts the world, and we can choose whether that impact is positive or negative.
But here's where it gets controversial... What do you think about the film's approach? Do you believe focusing on positive aspects is more effective than highlighting the negative impacts of environmental issues? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
