Here by Bas Devos: When Nature Talks and Connects
A calm adventure to rejoice in and rediscover nature
“Here” doesn’t follow traditional storytelling or present a clear plot. Instead, the movie invites us to glimpse the often invisible corners of life and the living beings lost in our everyday pursuits. It highlights the longing sensation many of us feel, consciously or unconsciously, for a neglected yet undeniably essential aspect of existence: nature and natural life.
In “Here,” a piece of nature is often integrated into the story. Like random seeds appearing in the pockets of the characters out of nowhere, in search of a home, or moss being studied as the subject of scientific research.
As the film opens, dark green leaves fill the frame, flickering and fluttering gently in the wind. In the distance, beyond the leaves and trees, giant concrete structures stand still and unmoving. This contrast between the animated life and the lifelessness of the buildings sets the stage. And in the dead gray buildings, we reside.
“Here” features an abundance of long shots of verdant life, inviting us to delight in and meditate on them. Through the lens, viewers are encouraged to explore the wonders of vibrant, humble beings that exist beyond our concrete confines.
