The Human Element
Directed by Matthew Testa
Ditch the Van
Directed by Mallory Cunningham
“Compelling, unsettling, and visually stunning . . . an enlightening film that should be seen by those still in denial about climate change”—Tiffany Tchobianian on The Human Element, Film Threat
In this documentary director Matthew Testa explores how we as humans are elemental forces of nature. As our activities alter the other elements—earth, air, water, and fire—those elements are changing us. In this riveting drama, blending art and science, we follow renowned environmental photographer James Balog (Chasing Ice) as he reveals how changes in the elements are affecting the lives of everyday Americans.
The film carries us to raging wildfires, hurricanes, and rising seas. We meet children whose health is affected by our altered air supply. Scientists from a wide range of disciplines describe the underlying physical processes. Through Balog’s ancestors, including scenes and interviews shot in Pikeville, Kentucky, we see coal mining in a new light and discover an uplifting story of coal miners who have turned into renewable energy developers. The Human Element tells an urgent story that gives inspiration for a more balanced relationship between humanity and nature. A selection of the San Francisco International Film Festival and the Newport Beach Film Festival (Audience Award Winner). 2018, U.S., DCP, 78 minutes.
Ditch the Van, directed by Kentucky filmmaker Mallory Cunningham, follows cellist, singer-songwriter, political activist, and fellow Kentuckian Ben Sollee who relinquishes his van after extensive tours through America. Becoming burnt out and with his health suffering, he bought an Xtracycle cargo bike, strapped his cello to it, and set off on a five-year, 5,000-mile journey. His Ditch the Van Tour brings hardships, like broken wheels, tornadoes, unfriendly motorists, and takes twice as long─for half the money─as a traditional tour. It also offers meaningful experiences and a more human pace of life in a frantic world. 2017, U.S., DCP, 10 minutes.
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