"Where Is Heaven?" shines like an oasis in rural Devon, profiling a tribe of die-hard off-grid enthusiasts who have made their mark on this picturesque landscape. Filmed over 10 years by directors Gerard Bryan and David Rafique, this charming documentary takes its time to ripen into a narrative that's both intimate and engaging.
At the heart of the film are a group of north Devon residents who have abandoned the comforts of modernity for a life of solitude in harmony with nature. While no one here is a complete recluse, they share a common trait - a deep contentment with living alone. It's an interesting dynamic that plays out across various relationships, some of which blossom and then fizzle out. We meet Chris, the self-proclaimed "lone wolf" who unexpectedly finds love with Emma; Amy, the cantankerous free spirit who tests whether her independent nature is a defining characteristic; and Pamela, the serene octogenarian poet who has found solace in her solitary life.
The film's greatest strength lies in its ability to capture the beauty of Devon's wild landscape. The cinematography is breathtaking, with lush green fields, sweeping skies, and dramatic sunsets that evoke a sense of awe. And then there's the soundtrack - plinkety strumming by folk musician Cosmo Sheldrake adds a whimsical touch that perfectly complements the story.
But beneath its idyllic surface, "Where Is Heaven?" is also a nuanced exploration of human relationships and our search for meaning in life. We meet Steve, the rogue publican who wages a battle with the authorities over his beloved pub - a symbol of community and resistance against the status quo. His epic lock-ins become a metaphor for the enduring power of individuality and the human spirit.
Ultimately, "Where Is Heaven?" is an absorbing ode to those who refuse to be bound by conventional norms. It's a film about finding freedom in solitude, celebrating the beauty of nature, and embracing our quirks as a source of strength. As you leave the screening, you can't help but wonder - where is heaven? And it might just be right here, in this rugged yet beautiful corner of Devon.
At the heart of the film are a group of north Devon residents who have abandoned the comforts of modernity for a life of solitude in harmony with nature. While no one here is a complete recluse, they share a common trait - a deep contentment with living alone. It's an interesting dynamic that plays out across various relationships, some of which blossom and then fizzle out. We meet Chris, the self-proclaimed "lone wolf" who unexpectedly finds love with Emma; Amy, the cantankerous free spirit who tests whether her independent nature is a defining characteristic; and Pamela, the serene octogenarian poet who has found solace in her solitary life.
The film's greatest strength lies in its ability to capture the beauty of Devon's wild landscape. The cinematography is breathtaking, with lush green fields, sweeping skies, and dramatic sunsets that evoke a sense of awe. And then there's the soundtrack - plinkety strumming by folk musician Cosmo Sheldrake adds a whimsical touch that perfectly complements the story.
But beneath its idyllic surface, "Where Is Heaven?" is also a nuanced exploration of human relationships and our search for meaning in life. We meet Steve, the rogue publican who wages a battle with the authorities over his beloved pub - a symbol of community and resistance against the status quo. His epic lock-ins become a metaphor for the enduring power of individuality and the human spirit.
Ultimately, "Where Is Heaven?" is an absorbing ode to those who refuse to be bound by conventional norms. It's a film about finding freedom in solitude, celebrating the beauty of nature, and embracing our quirks as a source of strength. As you leave the screening, you can't help but wonder - where is heaven? And it might just be right here, in this rugged yet beautiful corner of Devon.
. And don't even get me started on the whole "finding freedom in solitude" thing - I've been alone with my thoughts before, trust me 
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. Everyone else just kinda exists in their own little bubble. And that soundtrack? More like a siren song for hipsters 
. Give me some good ol' fashioned human drama any day.
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. I mean, who wouldn't wanna live off the grid and find meaning in nature? It's like they found a way to escape reality without leaving Devon 
. The cinematography tho, gives me all the feels 
. And that soundtrack, got me vibin' with Cosmo Sheldrake 
. Steve's pub battles tho, I'm dead 
. But seriously, it's a nice reminder we don't have to conform to societal norms to be happy 
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the cinematography is insane, i mean have you seen those sunsets?? 
and the soundtrack adds this whole other layer to the story... but what really got me was how it explores human relationships in such a nuanced way. we're all so caught up in trying to find meaning and community that it's easy to forget about our own quirks and strengths. the main character steve is literally my spirit animal 
The cinematography was insane! I was totally mesmerized by those sweeping skies and sunsets - it felt like I was there too, watching the world go by from a secluded spot in Devon. And can we talk about Cosmo Sheldrake's soundtrack? 
It added this whole whimsical vibe that completely complemented the story.
It's like, we don't have to conform just because society says we should. We can forge our own path and find freedom in solitude - that's beautiful.
I felt bad when Amy's independent nature was tested... anyway, what did you think of the documentary? 
they're like the ultimate chill vibes, living life on their own terms and loving every minute of it it's so inspiring to see people embracing solitude and finding happiness in nature... and the cinematography? wow, those sunsets are giving me all the feels 
what struck me most tho was how these individuals aren't rejecting community altogether, they just find it on their own terms, whether thru love, friendship or solo adventures 
, it makes me wanna pack my bags and move to Devon ASAP! And I love how the film shows these individuals finding freedom in solitude 
. It's like, they're not rebelling against society, but more so embracing their quirks and living life on their own terms 
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, and Amy's sassiness had me laughing out loud 