Wilding is a nature documentary based on the best selling book by Isabella Tree. It details the creation of Knepp Wildland – a large scale “re-wilding” project that turned once inarable farmland into a haven for British wildlife.
We start with Knepp estate’s dire beginnings. Knepp Estate is stuck in a flawed system of British agriculture that exacerbates arability. In order to remain viable, farmers rely on subsidies to pump their land full of chemicals. As the yields drop and soil quality decreases, the reliance increases and the cycle continues.
So the Burrells decide to give up generations of farming to heal the land. It’s a risky decision. However, given how David Attenborough describes the British Isles as one of the world’s most nature-depleted countries in the world, the dividends were worth it.
Wilding is a visual banquet. The hallmark cinematic pans of the land and close ups of feeding caterpillers and hunting owls are bolstered with re-enactments, computer generated graphics and filmed commentary. It is a rich, engaging experience.
Wilding is an unapologetic anecdote with heart. This isn’t just a feel good glow up. It uanabashedly lists the struggles behind the milestones. From the personal struggles of leaving farming behind, to conflict with the neighbours and legal loopholes.
Most importantly, Wilding highlights the interconnectness inherent in nature.
Centuries of digging up the soil had decimated the network of mycorrhizal fungi that was its life source. Inspired by Dutch ecologist, Frans Vera’s oostvaardersplassen model, the Burrells unleashed their own herds of cattle, horses and pigs to reengineer the landscape. Their fossicking and natural fertilising reintroduced microbes and insects. And so the ecological loop is revived and we see it unfold on the screen.
Wilding reminds us of how nature documentaries have evolved.
We’ve gone from purely marvelling at Earth’s living beings to using nature’s majesty to highlight why we need to protect it.
However, the conservation message, while often trumpeted, often feels generic (reduce, reuse, recycle!). Alternatively, the message focuses on what organisations are doing, without necessarily linking it back to what we can do as individuals.
This is where Wilding excels. While we may not own large swathes of farmland, I coulnd’t help but think about tiny patch of Earth. How can I make the bobtails feel more at home? Which mulch should I use to promote microbial activity in my soil? Wildling has turned the gears in my head. I’m sure my husband is silently cringing at all the work I’m about to make him do.
And this is why I believe Wildling is a must watch. Tell your friends, televise it in schools. Because Wilding doesn’t just inspire hope. If viewed with an open mind and heart, it could drive a mindset change that will benefit our natural world immensely.
Wilding is showing at Luna Palace Cinemas for ONE WEEK ONLY from 22nd May.