Wao Film Festival 2024: Celebrating Nature's Beauty and Challenges
The Wao Film Festival is back, promising an unparalleled cinematic experience that celebrates the marvels of the natural world while shedding light on pressing environmental issues.
Taking place from Thursday, 9 May to Sunday, 12 May, the festival invites audiences to immerse themselves in captivating films that inspire a deeper connection with nature.
This year's lineup features an array of thought-provoking films, including "Exposure," from Award-winning filmmaker Holly Morris who documents an extraordinary expedition to the melting Arctic polar ice caps.
Despite perilous conditions and discouragement, a diverse group of ordinary women from the Arab world and the West embark on a daring journey to reach the North Pole.
Morris's intimate portrayal reveals a story of resilience, survival, and global citizenship, capturing what could be the final expedition to the world's northernmost point.
“Common Ground," the highly anticipated sequel to the groundbreaking documentary "Kiss the Ground," exposes the dark realities behind our broken food system.
Through journalistic investigation and personal narratives, it uncovers the influence of money, power, and politics,
while also profiling diverse farmers adopting regenerative agriculture models that offer potential solutions to climate change and economic instability, as well as a beacon of hope for the future.
"Deep Rising" takes audiences on a journey from the depths of our ocean to the future of green energy, revealing their interconnectedness.
Narrated and executive produced by Jason Momoa, the film showcases stunning footage of deep-sea creatures, emphasising the vital role of ocean ecosystems in sustaining life on Earth.
By highlighting the ocean's significance as humanity's common heritage, "Deep Rising" urges thoughtful decision-making for future generations.
It prompts reflection on utilising abundant resources to meet our energy needs sustainably.
"Back to Camp 41," narrated by David Attenborough, intimately chronicles the poignant journey of Dr. Thomas Lovejoy's family, friends, and colleagues as they honour his legacy by returning his ashes to Camp 41, the heart of the Amazon rainforest.
Following the loss of Dr. Lovejoy, renowned as the "godfather of biodiversity," on December 25, 2021, the film captures their emotional pilgrimage to the place where he dedicated his life's work.
"Back to Camp 41" is a powerful testament to Dr. Lovejoy's lasting impact and the urgent need to protect our planet's biodiversity.
"Between the Rains" was filmed over four years amidst record low rainfall in northern Kenya.
Collaborating with the Turkana-Ngaremara community, it delves into the challenges faced by children growing up in a traditional culture affected by climate change.
Critics unanimously laud it as a ravishing depiction of resilience amidst environmental adversity.
"The Ocean Seen from the Heart," a sequel to "The Earth Seen from the Heart," reveals the alarming impact of human actions on the ocean's biodiversity and temperature.
With Hubert Reeves and a team of passionate scientists and explorers, the film explores the threats facing the ocean while highlighting its remarkable capacity for regeneration.
Tickets for individual films are priced at $15 each, with a special offer of 3 films for $30.
For those eager to experience the full breadth of the festival, a Full Festival Pass is available for $149, including access to online screenings.
Kids under 18 can attend for free, while students enjoy discounted tickets at $10 each.
All films are suitable for the whole family, ensuring an inclusive experience for all attendees.
For those unable to attend in person, the Wao Film Festival offers the convenience of online screenings, available for 6 weeks after the in-person festival , ensuring that audiences can enjoy the films from the comfort of their homes.
Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this extraordinary celebration of nature and cinema at the Wao Film Festival.
Secure your tickets at wao.co.nz and prepare to be inspired by the beauty and complexity of our planet.
The WAO Film Festival is at the Wānaka Community Hub & Online
