Fauna paints a cinematic canvas of contrasts, skillfully blurring the lines between tradition and modernity, offering a meditative reflection on the symbiotic relationship of nature, technology, and human progress.
Fauna, directed by Pau Faus, is a captivating documentary that transcends the boundaries between two seemingly opposing worlds. Premiering at the 2023 edition of Visions du Réel and selected for the international competition at Hot Docs, the film finally found its Quebec audience at Montréal International Documentary Festival (RIDM) 2023.
From the opening scenes, the filmmaker immerses us in the tranquil world of an elderly shepherd and his flock of goats amid lush nature. However, this pastoral serenity is quickly disrupted by a clever change in perspective. Through a seamless transition, the camera moves away from the shepherd to immerse us behind the window of a laboratory dedicated to animal experiments for the search for a COVID-19 vaccine. This striking contrast between pastoral life and the austerity of the laboratory creates a powerful visual impact.
The deliberate choice of fixed shots invites the viewer to contemplation, providing an opportunity to fully immerse oneself in the juxtaposed worlds. The carefully crafted transitions between each sequence reinforce the opposition between the slowly fading tradition and the emerging force of modernity, particularly through the lens of technology and vital scientific research in these pandemic times.
Fauna subtly explores the gradual loss of traditions deemed unnecessary in an ultra-modern world. In contrast, technology and scientific research become the pillars of hope in the face of a global pandemic. The director delicately portrays that these two seemingly incompatible worlds are, in reality, interdependent. Laboratory animals, crucial for the development of new vaccines, originate from farms like the shepherd’s. The shepherd, grappling with the physical consequences of years of hard work, underscores the necessity of medical treatments stemming from scientific research.
In conclusion, Fauna successfully weaves a visually striking narrative that transcends the apparent boundaries between tradition and modernity, offering profound reflection on the indispensable interconnection of these two worlds. Pau Faus skillfully guides us through this exploration, inviting the viewer to ponder the necessary coexistence of nature and technology in the pursuit of a harmonious balance for the future of humanity.
