This charming and fast-paced film is the result of a passionate endeavor led by writer-director-producer-editor Ed Sayers from Britain, along with numerous collaborators who captured the footage on Super 8 throughout various locations around the globe. Utilizing vintage equipment in innovative ways, they have preserved a film stock that, akin to some of the species featured, might have faced extinction without the dedication of enthusiasts.
Sayers’ primary directive was to document the beauty of nature, resulting in an array of visuals showcasing diverse ecosystems, from coral reefs to arid deserts, and from tiny insects to majestic whales. Given the limitations of Super 8 film, which can only record a few minutes at a time, the editing process must have been quite intricate. Thus, credit is due to Sayers for his outstanding footage, creative vision, and skillful assembly of the final product.
The film is further enhanced by a captivating original score composed by Alexandra Hamilton-Ayres, along with delicate sound effects crafted by David McAuley, such as the auditory representation of two ibex clashing their horns. Since Super 8 cameras lack sound recording capabilities, one unique contribution comes from a British woman who, having lost her hearing, finds a deeper appreciation for nature’s silence.
A notable strength of the film lies in its inclusion of the filmmakers themselves, highlighting the interconnectedness of nature, wildlife, and humanity, presenting a mostly harmonious, occasionally violent, global family. The mini self-portraits feature individuals like a woman documenting the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a snake enthusiast in the Mojave Desert, a caretaker who closely interacts with white rhinos, and a man with Parkinson’s disease who believes his passion for wildlife filming has positively affected his health.
Throughout the film, viewers catch glimpses of Sayers as he films seals along the Norfolk coast and lies in the rain to capture a snail in his garden, sharing reflections on how his mother’s passing influenced his perspective on the project. Overall, the film exemplifies the essence of crowd-sourced artistry: it is personal, eccentric, and highly relatable.
Super Nature will be released in cinemas across the UK and Ireland starting September 4.
