Prepare to be amazed by the hidden world of microfungi! The upcoming documentary 'Holy Destructors' is a captivating journey into the microscopic realm, shedding light on the fascinating organisms that thrive in decay.
In this exclusive trailer reveal, we get a glimpse into the unique vision of Lithuanian director Aistė Žegulytė, who takes us on an immersive exploration of the invisible. 'Holy Destructors' is set to make its world premiere at the International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA), running from November 13th to 23rd, and promises to be an extraordinary cinematic experience.
The film, a follow-up to Žegulytė's previous work 'Animus Animalis', delves into the intricate world of microfungi, those tiny organisms that emerge during the breakdown of organic matter. Through a blend of archival and contemporary footage, the director invites us to view these fungi through a microscope lens, offering a unique perspective on their growth and significance.
"Biodestructors, or microfungi, have existed for millions of years, long before humans arrived on the scene, and they will likely outlive us all," reads a captivating synopsis. "Their presence is a transformative force, turning bodies into a nourishing energy source for the soil, and thus, a catalyst for new life in an endless cycle of creation."
Žegulytė shares her inspiration, saying, "My initial fascination with fungi stemmed from their ability to decompose organic matter, a process that also serves as a form of bioconstruction. This central theme of the film drew me to fungi, as they are like magicians, transforming the vanishing world into something entirely new. It's as if death and pain take on a new, beautiful form."
'Holy Destructors' is a collaborative effort, produced by Uljana Kim of Studio Uljana Kim, To Be Continued Productions from France, and Studio Locomotive from Latvia. The film received support from various institutions, including the Lithuanian Film Center, CNC, Institut Français, and the National Film Center of Latvia. The captivating cinematography is the work of Vytautas Katkus.
Producer Kim expresses their excitement, stating, "We've been dedicated to this project since 2019, and we're thrilled to finally share it with audiences. 'Holy Destructors' pushes the boundaries of documentary cinema. Aistė Žegulytė possesses a rare talent for exploring complex ideas with poetic precision and visual courage. Working with her is an immersive experience where science and art intertwine, and decay reveals the beauty of creation."
Check out the trailer below for a first look at the mesmerizing world of fungi, where coffins, crypts, and the work of bioarchaeologists and restorers come together. Get ready to embark on a cosmic adventure into the blooming microcosm of microorganisms! And remember, this is just a teaser; the full documentary promises an even deeper dive into this captivating subject.
