In the realm of insects, moths are often overshadowed by their more glamorous counterparts, butterflies, seen merely as pests flitting around lights at night. Yet, the new documentary Nocturnes, directed by Anirban Dutta and Anupama Srinivasan, invites us to look deeper and appreciate the astonishing beauty and mystery of these often-overlooked creatures.
Nocturnes recently garnered a Special Jury Award for Craft at the Sundance Film Festival and will hit theaters at Metrograph in New York on October 18, followed by a release at the Laemmle Royal in Los Angeles on October 25, positioning it for Oscar consideration. The film promises an immersive experience, blending rich soundscapes and stunning visuals into a poetic narrative about our world.
The story follows ecologist Mansi, who embarks on a quest to study moths in one of Earth’s most vibrant ecosystems. Partnering with Bicki, a young member of the indigenous Bugun community, they set out to uncover the mysteries of these nocturnal beings. Night after night, they erect light screens, transforming the dark landscape into a mesmerizing canvas alive with moths of various sizes, colors, and patterns, each adding to the tapestry of life.
By shining a light on these ephemeral creatures, Nocturnes challenges our human-centric perspective and highlights the lush forest as a vital character in its own right. The film beautifully captures the symphony of nature—the rustling leaves, the whispering winds, and the rhythmic dance of rain—all coming together in a breathtaking showcase of biodiversity.
The documentary originated from a serendipitous meeting with Mansi, leading the filmmakers to venture into the Eastern Himalayas to document her groundbreaking work. As twilight descended, Mansi and Bicki set up a simple screen and activated blue lights, resulting in a stunning spectacle as thousands of moths filled the screen, accompanied by the sounds of nature. This moment sparked the filmmakers’ exploration of the intricate relationships between humans and the seemingly insignificant insects that share our world.
Grasshopper Film is distributing Nocturnes, while Dogwoof manages its international sales. Produced by Metamorphosis Film Junction and Sandbox Films, this documentary promises to deepen our understanding of the natural world and our place within it.
