‘Super Nature’ Premieres at BFI London Film Festival, Celebrates Wildlife

The film Super Nature, directed by Ed Sayers, made its world premiere on October 8, 2023, at the BFI London Film Festival. This documentary stands out as a heartfelt tribute to the wonders of the natural world, focusing on visual and emotional storytelling rather than conventional statistics or warnings about environmental issues.

Sayers, known for his work in commercials and music videos, presents his feature debut with a unique approach that captures the essence of nature through a series of intimate Super 8 visuals collected worldwide. The film aims to evoke feelings of connection and appreciation for wildlife, encouraging viewers to reflect on their relationship with the environment. According to the film’s synopsis, “How do you make a film about the natural world that’s environmentally sound?” The answer lies in a collaborative effort that spans continents, showcasing the rich diversity of natural landscapes.

The production involved contributions from around 40 Super 8 collaborators, including both professional filmmakers and local enthusiasts, across 25 countries and five continents. This international effort resulted in a mosaic of visual storytelling that celebrates nature’s beauty and the importance of its preservation.

Rebecca Wolff, a producer at Grasp the Nettle Films, expressed her excitement about working with BFI Distribution, stating that they will release the film widely throughout the UK and Ireland. She emphasized the film’s potential to resonate with audiences and foster discussions about the urgent need to nurture our connection with nature.

Sayers echoed this sentiment, noting, “Our hope is… that it will just remind people of that ever more tenuous connection we have with nature.” He aspires for the film to inspire viewers to take small actions that contribute positively to the environment.

The film’s reception at the festival was overwhelmingly positive, with audiences reporting feelings of peace and emotional engagement. Some attendees were moved to tears, highlighting the film’s ability to connect deeply with viewers. Wolff described the atmosphere during the premiere as filled with love for the film’s message, revealing that it touched people on a profound level.

Sayers and Wolff intentionally avoided a purely alarming portrayal of environmental issues. Instead, they chose to focus on celebrating what can be done to protect nature. Wolff remarked, “We really wanted to do a thing that was talking about what we’re fighting for rather than what we’re fighting against.” This celebration of hope and connection was crucial to the film’s vision.

The documentary features not only stunning visuals but also a narrative inspired by the ideas of renowned conservationist Jane Goodall, who recently passed away. Goodall emphasized the impact of individual actions on the planet, which aligns with the film’s core message that small, positive changes can lead to significant improvements in our relationship with nature.

With its enchanting visuals and powerful message, Super Nature is poised to captivate audiences far and wide. The film, co-produced by Forest of Black and financed by organizations such as the BFI Doc Society Fund, seeks not only to entertain but also to inspire meaningful conversations about our planet and the urgent need for its protection.