“RUN RIVER RUN”
a collection of short films showcasing the ever-shifting lenses through which a single story can be seen, unraveling how one journey can weave together multiple meanings, and how one person can embody a kaleidoscope of traits. It's a cinematic invitation to reject the surface, to think critically and embrace complexity—because nothing is black and white, and the most profound truths often lie in the vibrant spaces in between.
ABOUT THE FILM
In a quiet moment, a bald man in his 40s, cradling his infant, makes a decision—one that’s refreshingly simple. It’s not about glory or pushing physical limits like a modern-day hero. No fanfare, no grandiose tale. Life, after all, is mostly indifferent with a dash of absurdity.
Standing on his Stand-Up Paddleboard, Evan Sutter paddles down the river that once breathed life into his hometown, now just a conduit for coal ships, making millions while the river fades into obscurity. “What if I follow it from the source?” he wonders. “I love the river, love nature. Is it wild up there? Will the fish be safe to eat? What do the old folks think of what’s become of their river? What’s in store for tomorrow?”
So, Evan—bald, perhaps bold —grabs his board, asks his partner if she can handle the baby for a few nights, and sets off for the river's source. Maybe there’s no story here… or maybe there is.
Too often we look at things as if they emerge in isolation. We fail to see that everything connects to everything else. We look at mental health from a one dimensional lens, not looking deep enough at the conditions that bind. We look at environmental destruction, failing to see that it is inherent in a system that promotes maximum profits. The more we call for specialisation, the more we miss the things that link. The more we praise individualism, the more we reject interdependence and community. In the process it becomes only natural that ecosystems and human well-being be compromised.
Physically challenging, intellectually eye opening, and visually stunning, the river paddle is thought-provoking, inspiring, entertaining, and important. How can we balance our pursuit of wealth with looking after the beauty of our wild places? Can choosing experiences over things help bring everything back into balance? Can showing our young ones the immense beauty of nature be the best defence in the fight against climate change? Can rethinking our relationship with work, health, family, love, consumerism, money and power help us to lead more meaningful and enjoyable lives?
ABOUT OUR PARTNERS
Environmental Plastic Innovation Cluster (EPIC)
More collaborations on the way.
