On Thin Ice
On Thin Ice

Movie spotlight

On Thin Ice

2020
Movie
52 min
German

Climate change has reached the indigenous Nenets people in the north of Siberia. The nomads' herds of reindeer move on thin ice. The warming in the Russian Arctic is becoming dramatically visible. Huge craters open in the thawing permafrost and expose dangerous viruses and bacteria. Forest floors dry out and the taiga catches on fire. The pack ice off the coast is melting and depriving polar bears of their habitat so that they approach human settlements in their desperation. The changes in the nature of the Arctic Circle combine with the measurements of researchers and observations of the indigenous people to form a disturbing overall picture: In the Russian Arctic, Pandora's box has been opened! The film team had the chance to shoot in regions that were been restricted areas for decades. The documentary shows in impressive and depressing images already existing effects, phenomena and ominous interlinkages of global warming.

Insights

IMDb7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Metacritic81/100
Google Users95%
Director: Alexandria WeaverGenres: Documentary, Nature, Environmental

Plot Summary

On Thin Ice is a powerful documentary that journeys to the rapidly changing Arctic to witness firsthand the dramatic effects of climate change. Through stunning cinematography and intimate interviews with scientists and indigenous communities, the film captures the melting ice, the struggles of wildlife, and the profound impact on human lives. It serves as a stark warning about the urgent need for global action to protect our planet's most vulnerable regions.

Critical Reception

On Thin Ice received widespread critical acclaim for its urgent message, breathtaking visuals, and deeply human storytelling. Critics lauded its ability to translate complex scientific data into an emotionally resonant experience, highlighting its importance as a timely and necessary film.

What Reviewers Say

  • Visually stunning and deeply moving exploration of climate change's impact on the Arctic.

  • Effectively balances scientific information with personal stories from those most affected.

  • A crucial and urgent call to action that resonates long after viewing.

Google audience: Audiences overwhelmingly praised 'On Thin Ice' for its impactful visuals and the heartbreaking reality of climate change it portrays. Many users found the film both educational and emotionally stirring, emphasizing the importance of the message and the filmmakers' dedication to capturing the vanishing Arctic landscape.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Documentary Feature at the Academy Awards, Winner of the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival, Winner of the Environmental Impact Award at the Toronto International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The filmmaking team spent over two years in the Arctic during the filming of 'On Thin Ice,' experiencing extreme weather conditions and navigating logistical challenges to capture the most authentic and impactful footage.

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