Watch Happy People: A Year in the Taiga

Happy People: A Year in the Taiga is a documentary film directed by Werner Herzog and Dmitry Vasyukov. The movie follows the life of the indigenous people living in the rugged taiga regions of Siberia. The film was released in 2010, and it has since become one of the most popular documentaries about the lifestyle of native Siberians.

The movie takes place in the small village of Bakhtia, which lies deep in the Siberian taiga. It follows the daily lives of the villagers, who depend on hunting, fishing, and gathering to survive. The film is divided into four seasons, starting with spring and ending with winter. Each season shows the different tasks and activities that the villagers undertake to survive and thrive in their harsh environment.

The movie opens with a breathtaking aerial view of the Siberian forests covered in snow. Herzog's voiceover sets the tone for the rest of the film, describing the beauty and severity of Siberia. He says, "The taiga is a territory of silence and survival. The lives of the people here depend on the animals they hunt and the rivers that surround them."

Throughout the movie, we see the villagers engage in a variety of activities such as hunting sable, fishing for salmon, making skis, and building boats. Each activity is shown in great detail, allowing the viewer to appreciate the skills and knowledge required to live in such a remote and hostile environment. We also see the villagers share their wisdom with their children, passing on their traditional way of life to the next generation.

The film also delves into some of the challenges that the villagers face. For example, we see how the floods caused by the melting of the winter ice can ruin their homes and destroy their livelihood. Additionally, we see how the villagers have to fend off bears and wolves that threaten their safety and their livestock. Despite these challenges, the villagers remain determined to survive, showcasing their resilience and perseverance.

One of the most memorable characters in the movie is Gennady Soloviev, a hunter and trapper who has lived in the taiga for over 40 years. Gennady is a fascinating and engaging figure, and his deep knowledge of the taiga is evident in the way he talks about the wildlife and landscape around him. We see him build a trap for a sable, track a bear, and navigate through the forest with ease.

Overall, Happy People: A Year in the Taiga is a stunning portrayal of the lives of the indigenous people of Siberia. The documentary is both informative and visually stunning, thanks to the breathtaking beauty of the Siberian taiga combined with Herzog's signature style of filmmaking. Additionally, the film offers a unique insight into a way of life that is rapidly disappearing, making it an important historical document. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in anthropology, indigenous cultures, or nature documentaries.

In conclusion, Happy People: A Year in the Taiga is a captivating and inspiring documentary that celebrates the resilience of human life in the face of extreme circumstances. It is a testament to the power of tradition, community, and the human spirit. The cinematography is breathtaking, the characters are fascinating, and the story is both educational and entertaining. It is a film that will stay with you long after you have watched it, reminding you of the enduring and indomitable spirit of humanity.