Watch Transhumance: Routes to a Disappearing Life

Transhumance: Routes to a Disappearing Life is an insightful documentary film that takes its viewers on a journey through the ancient practice of transhumance, a disappearing way of life that has long been an integral part of many cultures around the world. The film is directed by Anne-Flore Marxer and Aline Brossard, and features the skilled and captivating performance by Tina Preschitz. The documentary is shot in an artistic and dramatic style, showcasing the beautiful natural landscapes and the intense physical and emotional challenges faced by the protagonists.

As the title suggests, the movie is about a nomadic lifestyle of moving livestock from one place to another across long distances, and this journey is known as transhumance. Throughout the film, we get to see Tina, an artist and transhumant shepherd herself, lead her flock of 800 sheep over a challenging terrain of the French Alps, where they encounter various obstacles ranging from adverse weather conditions to predators.

In Transhumance: Routes to a Disappearing Life, Tina shares her insights on the ancient practice of transhumance and the difficulties faced by those engaged in it. She also highlights the many benefits of this way of life, including its sustainability, the preservation of biological diversity, and the maintenance of alpine landscapes.

In addition to Tina's personal experiences, the film also explores the cultural and historical significance of transhumance in various regions of the world. We see how this practice has been carried out for centuries by different communities, ranging from the Berbers in North Africa, to the Yak herders of the Tibetan Plateau, and how the continuation of the tradition is threatened by societal changes, such as urbanization and industrialization.

The documentary offers a rare glimpse into the daily lives of people who have dedicated their lives to transhumance. We see their intimate interactions with the animals they take care of, and the strong bond they share with them. Through Tina's eyes, we see the beauty of the natural world, the unique lifestyle of transhumance, and their importance in the modern world.

Visually, Transhumance: Routes to a Disappearing Life is absolutely stunning. The cinematography is breathtaking, with sweeping shots of the mountains and valleys throughout the changing seasons. The use of natural light and sound also adds to the documentary's immersive experience, making the viewer feel as though they're standing alongside Tina and her flock.

Overall, Transhumance: Routes to a Disappearing Life is a captivating and insightful documentary that offers a unique perspective on a way of life that is fast disappearing. It serves as both a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and its ability to adapt to changing times, and a call to preserve the rich cultural practices that have shaped communities around the world. Whether you're interested in animal husbandry, environmentalism, or world cultures, this documentary is sure to leave a deep impression on you.

Transhumance: Routes to a Disappearing Life is a 2022 documentary with a runtime of 53 minutes.