Ed Sayers’ ‘Super Nature’ Premieres at BFI London Film Festival

The film Super Nature, directed by Ed Sayers, premiered on October 8, 2023, at the 69th BFI London Film Festival. This documentary stands out as a heartfelt homage to the wonders of nature, diverging from conventional environmental narratives that often emphasize statistics and dire warnings. Instead, it focuses on immersive visual and auditory experiences, reminiscent of old family home movies.

Sayers, in his feature debut, has created a film that showcases a collection of Super 8 images from around the globe. This unique approach aims to highlight the beauty of the natural world and underscore its urgent need for protection. The film’s synopsis poses a thought-provoking question: “How do you make a film about the natural world that’s environmentally sound?” The answer emerges through a collaborative community effort involving contributors from multiple continents, all capturing intimate observations of their local landscapes.

Collaborative Filmmaking Across Continents

The production of Super Nature was a collective endeavor that brought together approximately 40 collaborators, including both professional filmmakers and local enthusiasts from 25 countries across five continents. This international tapestry enriches the film’s narrative, showcasing diverse perspectives on humanity’s connection to nature.

“Super Nature is a truly international film, and it was really important to us that it was a positive film that brought you active hope,” Sayers stated. The film seeks to inspire viewers by celebrating the beauty of the environment rather than simply presenting the challenges it faces.

Produced by Grasp the Nettle Films and Forest of Black, and co-produced by Asif Kapadia, the film received financial backing from the BFI Doc Society Fund, Screen Scotland, and several other organizations. Notably, BFI Distribution has secured the rights for theatrical release in the U.K. and Ireland, expressing enthusiasm for the film’s potential to engage audiences.

A Positive Message Amid Environmental Concerns

In conversations with The Hollywood Reporter, Sayers and producer Rebecca Wolff emphasized their decision to focus on fostering a sense of hope rather than fear. “We really wanted to talk about what we’re fighting for rather than what we’re fighting against,” Wolff explained. This sentiment resonated during the premiere, where attendees reported feeling emotional yet uplifted, suggesting that the film successfully conveys its intended message of connection and appreciation for nature.

Sayers noted that the film’s reception has exceeded their expectations, with many viewers expressing a desire to reconnect with nature after watching. “Our hope is that it will just remind people of that ever more tenuous connection we have with nature,” he stated.

The film also pays tribute to the late Jane Goodall, whose legacy of environmental advocacy aligns with the film’s core mission. Goodall’s teachings on individual impact serve as a reminder that every action, no matter how small, contributes to the larger narrative of environmental stewardship.

As Super Nature prepares for its wider release, both Sayers and Wolff are optimistic about igniting conversations around nature and humanity’s role in its preservation. This film aims not only to entertain but also to inspire audiences to engage with the natural world more meaningfully.