In his second feature-length documentary, director Tomáš Elšík quietly explores the social and philosophical dimensions of a modern phenomenon: observing the consequences of human activity on the planet, sparking change. The film asks whether we can reawaken our senses and return to seeing the world not as something to dominate, but as a living whole we’re only a part of. Fortunately, there are still people who perceive the world around us as a living organism and who refuse to accept the environment’s rapid loss of biodiversity. They fight for their cause through legal means, though often in ways reminiscent of guerilla tactics. Pavel, a trained forest engineer, has dedicated his life to protecting wetlands, spring-fed meadows, peat bogs, and the rare plants that depend on them. Klára hasn’t come to terms with human ruthlessness and together with her two specially trained dogs, she scours the landscape for deadly bait traps that threaten endangered birds.

The film screening will be followed by a discussion in Slovak and Czech:

One World × Kapitál: Resilience. Activism in Times of Environmental Crisis

Marking the screening of Resilience (dir. Tomáš Elšík, who’s acclaimed documentary Central Bus Station was previously featured at One World) and the publication of the collection of Wendell Berry’s essays translated into Slovak Nehybný pútnik [Motionless Pilgrim], the One World film festival and the critical portal Kapitál invite you to a discussion on the film’s underlying message and on how to stay engaged, yet sensitive, in the face of the environmental crisis.

Resilience delves into the psychological and philosophical motivations of environmental protectors, as well as their disillusionments. Moments of tender care for land and animals unfold alongside the callousness of industrial exploitation. Through two stories centred on people and animals, the film portrays struggles over the future of the world often invisible to the public eye. Wendell Berry’s essays, addressing themes of biodiversity conservation, will also be highlighted during the event.

Guests:

• Tomáš Elšík, director of the film Resilience
• Mário Kern, ornithologist (expert on bird crime)

Hosted by Jakub Huba, teacher and conservator.