Forest for the Trees

Much of what people get concerned about regarding the environment has to do with the cutting down of trees. This film explores the aftermath; the sub-culture of the tree planter. In a masterfully presented, excellently filmed series of personal profiles and sweeping scenic tours, the two hours fly by in a wonder of humans-in-nature agony and ecstasy.

As a former forest industry mill worker (got me through university!) I have nothing but awed admiration for these brave folk, who fight isolation, insects, steep hillsides, spare living circumstances and constant fatigue in order to earn a living and renew the forests. In its portrayal of ecological renewal, Forest for the Trees stands as a song of British Columbia and a tribute to the spirit of Canadians.

Rita Leistner's new treeplanting documentary, Forest For The Trees is a phenomenal piece of film making, destined to become compulsory viewing for anyone interested in the brutal yet magical job. The in-depth interviews of Planters' everyday lives and Leistner's own veteran experience provide a precise representation of the intense treeplanting world. The visuals are mindblowing and the soundtrack is completely amazeballs. I give it a 10 out of 10.

Jody Brumell Outland Reforestation '89-'93,'98.