500 Days in the Wild

500 Days in the Wild" is a captivating documentary that takes viewers on an immersive journey into the heart of nature. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker, Dianne Whelan this documentary is a visual feast that explores the beauty, challenges, and profound lessons found in the wilderness.

The film follows the incredible odyssey of Dianne Whelan an adventurous soul who embarks on a 500-day solo expedition into some of the world's most remote and untouched landscapes. From towering mountain ranges to pristine waterways every frame of the documentary showcases the breathtaking diversity of our planet's natural wonder

What sets "500 Days in the Wild" apart is its intimate portrayal of the human experience in nature. Through Dianne Whelan's eyes, viewers witness the highs and lows of solitary exploration, from moments of awe-inspiring tranquility to heart-pounding encounters with weather and wildlife. The film beautifully captures the raw emotions and profound solitude that accompany such an epic journey, inviting audiences to reflect on their own connection to the natural world.

Visually stunning cinematography combined with a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack elevates the documentary to a cinematic masterpiece. Each shot is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of wonder and reverence for the wilderness, reminding us of the importance of preserving these pristine landscapes for future generations.

However, "500 Days in the Wild" is more than just a visual spectacle; it's a poignant reminder of the fragility of our planet's ecosystems. Throughout the film, Dianne encounters firsthand the devastating effects of climate change and human encroachment on the natural world. These sobering moments serve as a powerful call to action, urging viewers to take responsibility for protecting our environment before it's too late.

In conclusion, "500 Days in the Wild" is a mesmerizing cinematic journey that will leave a lasting impression on audiences of all ages. Its awe-inspiring visuals, compelling storytelling, and profound message make it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates the beauty and importance of our planet's wilderness. Prepare to be inspired, moved, and forever changed by this extraordinary documentary.

"500 Days in the Wild" deeply resonated with audiences at this year's Youth and Elders Gathering at Michipicoten First Nation, where it was shown in a setting that directly connected viewers with the waters that Dianne Whalen paddled in her journey. As the owners of Thrive Tours, an Indigenous Education and Tourism company, we saw firsthand how many community members saw themselves reflected in Dianne's six-year trek along the Great Trail. Her journey embodied values of connection, perseverance, and respect for the land, deeply resonating with Indigenous communities.

When we shared the film at our culture camp with Indigenous Youth Land Guardians, particularly female youth, the impact was profound. The documentary sparked a deep sense of motivation, inspiring them to dream bigger and reminding them of the kindness and support that exist in the world, just as Dianne experienced along her path. Her story of resilience and connection to the land mirrored the teachings we emphasize at Thrive Tours, making the film a perfect complement to our mission.

"500 Days in the Wild" is more than a documentary-it is a heartfelt narrative of determination, a tribute to the beauty of the land, and an inspiring reminder that we all have the potential to achieve great things when we trust in our journey and the community that supports us. Dianne's film reflects the values we uphold at Thrive Tours and continues to inspire those who experience it.

I'm torn between this movie. It's a wonderful story about a woman's journey of self discovery while facing head-on the challenges of the harsh Canadian landscape. Her tenacity and courage to cross the country was truly inspiring. The film was shot and edited into a great story, that could hold the viewer across the entire length of the film. For these bits, I'd say it's worthy of a 7, however....

As an indigenous person, I have mixed feelings about settlers who lean in on indigenous spirituality to the extent she does. But specifically about the film and her journey, she claims to be doing this journey as a way to connect with the land, all while she clumsily traverses the land leaving behind a trail of garbage (multiple tents lost). How can a person who says they care for the land be so ill prepared to experience it, and to lose multiple tents? Nothing can be more colonial to the land than leaving things behind for the land to deal with, which in the case of her tents could be thousands of years.

Also, in true settler fashion, she has zero care for some of the indigenous languages, as she butchers and mispronounces many words. Listening to her pronounce the name of her canoe was like a knife in my ears every time she mentioned it. It's pronounced gwee-moo btw.

So while she tries to put a wrapper of reconciliation on her journey, her crossing the country was more akin to the original settlers: Having little regard for the land, the culture of the original inhabitants, and leaving behind a trail of destruction that will take a millennium to repair.

The film itself is an oxymoron, and for that it drops from a solid 7 to a 4. My only hope, this film doesn't inspire more people to follow in her steps.

Meskie (sorry), I don't want to sound like a hater... I'm just pointing out some of the colonial traits in this film, that even a person who appears to be sympathetic of indigenous people and culture still has. Decolonizing is not easy, and I hope she continues on that journey and learns and grows from it.

Just not as advertised! The film is shot over 6 years, has very little actual "wilderness" (except what you can see around the filmmaker I guess), and was not done in 500 days. The Trans Canada Trail itself is merely the set piece and plays little role.

The dialogue comes off pretentious and forced. There is a very clear politics to the film, and most filmed encounters seem to be contrived to serve that. The messaging of the film is this strange fetishization of Canadian native culture, which of course comes with the demonization of all things modern (while the film maker survives exclusively by the grace of modern equipment, electronics, and vehicles).

Overall I found the film to really be nothing more than series of self indulgent cliches about nature while ignoring actual nature beyond a backdrop. Pretty disappointing.really considering what it could have been. As someone who has been to many of those areas, the focus should have been on how breathtaking Canada is.

This documentary movie was stupidly good, the strength of this film maker was incredible, her courage and to see our nation through her eyes was a testament to how beautiful and lucky we are to live here, but also points out how we are taking for granted her beauty. The cinematography was amazing she captured the spirit of nature every step of the way. This filmmaker captured the beauty and power of nature that even the ugly dangerous parts are beautiful. I'm looking forward to hopefully see some more of her works like these. Six years to make a film is in itself an incredible project. Yes she had help and those that help deserve kudos bravo to a magnificent artist.