Shyam Karki's Documentary 'Wildfire' Earns Global Recognition; Wins Best Movie at International Film Festival 'LAO'

WWF Sassari Acknowledges the Impact of the Documentary with a Special Mention at the International Film Festival Life After Oil

Shyam Karki, a renowned Nepali documentary filmmaker, continues to receive acclaim for his powerful documentary 'Wildfire' as it adds another prestigious award to its collection. The documentary secured the Best Movie accolade at the esteemed International Film Festival Life After Oil (LAO) held in Sassari, Italy. This recognition at the film festival highlights the urgent environmental issues portrayed in 'Wildfire.' The documentary also received a special mention from WWF Sassari, further emphasizing its significance.

'Wildfire' focuses on the devastating consequences of forest fires, specifically the impact on the red panda population and the broader issue of wildfires. Shyam Karki, an experienced documentary filmmaker, began his career in Nepal, immersing himself in audiovisual production. He later spent two years in the Gulf Cooperation Council, capturing industrial work and Arab drama. Returning to Nepal in 2013, Karki continued to create independent documentaries, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to storytelling.

'Wildlife' bags Best Movie Award at the International Film Festival Life After Oil (LAO) held in Sassari, Italy. Courtesy: Life After Oil (LAO)/Facebook

Screening of Shyam Karki's documentary 'Wildlife' at the International Film Festival Life After Oil (LAO) held in Sassari, Italy. 

The Life After Oil International Film Festival is dedicated to environmental and human rights films. The festival aims to go beyond simple exposure and raise public awareness about the risks associated with the exploitation and use of natural resources in fossil fuel production. It also addresses the pressing issue of energy scarcity, particularly the water supply, which is highly relevant to the world population. The festival's objective is not only to highlight problems related to fossil fuel use but also to identify alternatives based on current scientific knowledge.

WWF Sassari is an association that has been active in the provincial territory for approximately 30 years. The volunteers have been committed to supporting the WWF's efforts to protect biodiversity and environmental balance. They promote concrete actions to defend the environmental heritage and raise awareness among political decision-makers and citizens.

'Wildfire' has been gaining global recognition, with multiple achievements to its name. Prior to winning at the LAO festival, the documentary received the Best Documentary award at an international film festival in Mauritius. It also received an honorable mention at the Australian Film Festival, Dare to Struggle, and a Special Mention Award at the Nepal-America Film Festival.

Courtesy: Samson Film Production

Additionally, the documentary became a topic of discussion after securing the second position in the climate change category at the Kathmandu Mountain Film Festival (KIMFF). KIMFF, an annual film festival, attracts filmmakers, film enthusiasts, critics, scholars, journalists, and others interested in the field.

In these trying times, as global and local efforts for climate change, environmental and wildlife conservation intensify across organizations, governments, and individuals at micro, mezzo, and macro levels, the documentary 'Wildfire' emerges as a catalyst for change. With its poignant portrayal of the devastating consequences of forest fires on wildlife, this 10-minute film has truly made a tangible impact. 'Wildfire' captures the attention and compels viewers to take action by making a real-life impact. 

'Wildfire' narrates the aftermath of 60 forest fires that ravaged Nepali forests in 2021, shedding light on their impact on endangered animals, particularly the vulnerable red panda. The documentary also emphasizes the broader consequences of climate change on both animal and human life, urging viewers to recognize the urgency of addressing these critical issues.

Karki encaptures an endangered Red Panda rescued from Langtang National Park. Courtesy: Samson Film Production

As Shyam Karki's 'Wildfire' continues to captivate audiences worldwide, it reinforces the significant role of documentary filmmaking in raising awareness about environmental challenges. Through masterful storytelling and captivating visuals, Karki has created an extraordinary work of art that rightfully garners appreciation and recognition. With each accolade, 'Wildfire' further solidifies its position as a remarkable documentary contributing to the global conversation on conservation and climate change.

Shyam Karki, a documentary filmmaker from Nepal, is renowned for his outstanding contributions to the field. Driven by his love for storytelling and documentary filmmaking, he has built a diverse career encompassing various aspects of audiovisual production. Shyam initially refined his skills by immersing himself in the dynamic environment of a multimedia company in Nepal, where he gained invaluable expertise across different dimensions of audiovisual creation.

Nepali fimmaker Shyam Karki in action. Courtesy: Samson Film Production

Motivated by his commitment to capturing compelling narratives, Shyam Karki embarked on a journey to the Gulf Cooperation Council region, where he documented the multifaceted realm of industrial work and Arab drama. Over the course of two years, he immersed himself in the intricacies of these subjects, skillfully capturing their essence through his camera lens. This immersive experience broadened his perspective and honed his storytelling abilities, adding depth and richness to his work.

Upon his return to Nepal in 2013, Shyam Karki continued to pursue his passion as a documentary filmmaker, with a specific focus on creating independent documentaries that shed light on significant social and environmental issues. Through his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to storytelling, he has captivated audiences with thought-provoking narratives and visually stunning imagery.

Shyam Karki's extensive background in multimedia production, coupled with his firsthand experience documenting industrial work and Arab drama, has profoundly influenced his distinct approach to documentary filmmaking. These diverse experiences have contributed to his ability to craft engaging stories that deeply resonate with viewers. As he continues to produce impactful documentaries, Shyam Karki's unwavering dedication to his craft and his genuine passion for storytelling shine through in his remarkable body of work.

Access documentary trailer at: Wildfire trailer

(Covered by Aashish Chaudhary)