MOVIE REVIEW
A New Kind of Wilderness
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 23m
Director(s): Silje Evensmo Jacobsen
Where To Watch: showing at the 2024 Hot Docs International Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: In the lush wilderness of Norway, the Payne family embodies the essence of what it means to live off the grid, far from the digital buzz and urban frenzy. Their existence, rooted in farming and the core family structure, is unique. A heartbreaking loss occurs that begins to make them question everything. This pivotal event sets the stage for A NEW KIND OF WILDERNESS, steering the narrative through the stormy seas of sustaining an ideal lifestyle against overwhelming grief.

Nik Payne and his children lead a life many only read about—a narrative from an earthy, pastoral novel. Their existence, marked by self-sufficiency and natural connections to the earth, abruptly changes course when the family loses their cornerstone. A NEW KIND OF WILDERNESS captures this profound transformation under Silje Evensmo Jacobsen's subtle yet impactful direction, offering a raw glimpse into the family's efforts to preserve their way of life amid new pressures.

The film navigates through intimate family moments and the broader societal impacts of what it means to live off the grid, covering a narrative that is as rich in personal struggle as it is in broader environmental and educational themes. Jacobsen’s directorial approach, characterized by its unobtrusive intimacy, allows the audience to observe the Payne family's most private moments and reflections, effectively pulling the viewers into the very fabric of their family.

As the documentary unfolds, the focus shifts to Nik, whose life has changed, whose roles have evolved, and who is tasked with maintaining their cherished home. This home, a silent narrator in its own right, is a poignant symbol of the past—a sanctuary of memories and dreams now under threat. The transition from home education to a structured public school setting contrasts sharply with their previous life, spotlighting the stark realities that the Payne children must now navigate.

Throughout A NEW KIND OF WILDERNESS, the resilience of the Payne children emerges as a central theme. Despite the upheaval, they begin to carve out new roles within their community and school, illustrating their adaptability and the family’s undying spirit. These developments are crucial moments that reshape their identities and the world as they know it.

Additionally, the documentary probes the sustainability of such a lifestyle, integrating a robust environmental thread throughout the story. It questions whether this idyllic existence is feasible amidst personal and ecological challenges, arguing for the fragile beauty of a life attuned to nature.

More than just a tale of existence, A NEW KIND OF WILDERNESS invites viewers to ponder the intricate dance between nature, nurture, and the inevitabilities of change. Jacobsen’s thoughtful direction ensures the film resonates as a sensitive exploration of a family navigating the complexities of life. It enriches the discourse on identity, bonding, and our profound connections with the environment.

A NEW KIND OF WILDERNESS is a compelling and enlightening portrayal of a family's journey through grief and change. This narrative is a testament to human resilience and the profound influence of legacy and love on our choices and existence. Far from being a niche film for environmentalists or those fascinated by alternative lifestyles, this documentary appeals to a broad audience, celebrating a story of endurance and insight delivered with genuine heart.

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[photo courtesy of A5 FILM, CINETIC & DR SALES]

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