For the past two years I've been developing an exciting documentary film idea with Zoe Stephens and today (June 6th) is launch day for the funding campaign.
This is the emotional story of how a long weekend became a 531 day journey. Once covid threw down the shutters and international borders, Zoe was stranded in The Kingdom of Tonga and carved out a new life and met some incredible people who faced challenging circumstances.
I first read about Zoe's story in The Guardian back in 2021 and since then it has never been far from my thoughts, and soon after the idea for what became 'Beyond The Horizon' was born. There are so many layers to this emotional story, which we plan to film this summer... not an easy task given the location's remoteness.
This is a story of finding friendship in the most bizarre of circumstances, with themes of empathy and uncertainty, of surrendering to time and the unique events that surround a moment in a life.
It's a human story which reminds us of the power of human connection, the importance of companionship, and the ability to overcome adversity.
We explore our unique relationship with animals, especially dogs and the deep bond we have with our four legged friends.
There are themes of tragedy, loss, resilience and pride as the island nation comes to terms with the massive 15-megaton volcanic eruption that was clearly seen from space (the biggest explosion ever recorded in Earth's atmosphere) that shook Tongan Kingdom to its core in 2022, and took the life of a close friend.
The environment, isolation, mental and physical health, the benefits of running (Zoe set up the first Tongan marathon during her time there, and upon her return will run it again this summer for charity - just 100km!), surviving a cyclone, and the stories of the people she met during her trip will be told.
More information can be found here - and how you too can be part of this incredible journey: https://www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/beyondthehorizon
Media enquiries, please contact james.rowat@cloudforestfilms.com
We recently held a prize draw to raise funds for the documentary - with the winner being Liam Wilkinson. Thanks to those who took part!
コメント