“Wild Summon” is a 2023 natural history fantasy film directed by Karni (Arieli) and Saul (Freed), which reimagines the life cycle of a wild salmon through the lens of human experience. The film follows a female salmon who, upon reaching maturity, embarks on a perilous journey from the river to the open sea and back to her birthplace to spawn. Along the way, she encounters various challenges, including natural predators and human-made obstacles, symbolizing the resilience and determination inherent in the natural world.
The film begins with a female salmon lying exhausted on the riverbank after releasing her eggs. This poignant moment sets the tone for the journey ahead. The salmon, in human form as a free diver, navigates the river’s challenges—swift currents, rocky outcrops, and the ever-present threat of predators, human and natural—each obstacle a symbol of her struggle and resilience. As she navigates these familiar yet demanding waters, her journey reflects the profound transition from the nurturing comfort of fresh water to the vast, uncharted territories of the ocean,
The climax of the film depicts the salmon’s return to its birthplace, overcoming numerous obstacles, and embodies themes of perseverance and the cyclical nature of life.
The narrative is delivered through the voice of the late Marianne Faithfull, whose narration adds a poetic and reflective tone to the film.
The filmmakers employ a blend of live-action underwater cinematography and 3D computer animation, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience that highlights the beauty and fragility of nature.
Wild Summon serves as an allegory for the challenges faced by wild salmon populations, emphasizing themes of resilience, migration, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems. If you can find a way to watch it, it’s a worthwhile experience. The film was deserving of the nominations it received for Best Short Animation at the BAFTA and was shortlisted for the Academy Award. Find more information here.
The Other Cinema 