This was probably my favorite and most meaningful film project of 2023.
As a storyteller I use the Hero’s Journey, Joseph Campbells famous storytelling framework, a lot in my films. So I’m quite familiar with the structure where the common person battles both internal and external demons in his quest to grow, slay the dragon and return home a hero, able to share his newfound wisdom and riches with his loved ones.
However, to literally step into a trip modeled after the framework I’d never done. So when I was invited by transformational facilitators Koen and Sjors on their 5-day wilderness adventure in Norway, I said yes right away. Their timing was perfect. I was longing for an adventure, but honestly… this trip surpassed all expectations. Being guided on an inner journey by Koen and Sjors while completely surrounded by nature, offline and off-grid but also together with a group of beautiful humans, was one of the most nourishing things I’ve ever experienced.
The 5 days felt like 3 weeks.
Time didn’t exist.
Nature carried us, and took care of us.
We laughed, cried, and shared our hardships.
And most of all, we remembered what life is all about.
It was a beautiful and deeply spiritual experience that brought me closer to myself and close to Life. I’m so thankful to have had the trust of the group to capture everyone’s most pure and vulnerable moments so I could turn it all into a short documentary. I wanted to create this film was to capture this experience and pass it along in the hope it can inspire you to also remember what’s truly important and live (even) more true to your heart.
Crew:
Filmed & edited by Lars Veenstra
Drawing & animation by Midas Rotteveel
Film festivals:
Winner, Best Environmental Film - June 2024 Toronto Documentary Feature & Short Film Festival
Finalist, Best International Film - 2024 Oregon Documentary Film Festival
Finalist - 2024 Luleå International Film Festival
Nominee, Short Films - 2024 AltFF Alternative Film Festival Toronto
Official Selection - 2024 Stockholm City Film Festival
