A New Kind of Wilderness: A Haunting Exploration of Loss and Resilience
A New Kind of Wilderness is a poignant and beautifully crafted documentary by Norwegian filmmaker Silje Evensmo Jacobsen. This film doesn’t just tell a story; it invites viewers into a world of profound grief and fragile beauty, revealing complexities that linger just beneath the surface.
The Heart of the Story: A Family’s Journey Through Grief
The narrative unfolds through the lens of Maria Vatne, a talented photographer who documented her idyllic life on a farm in Norway with her British husband, Nik Payne, and their three home-schooled children—Ulv, Falk, and Freja—as well as Maria’s oldest daughter, Ronja, from a previous relationship. However, the bliss of their off-grid existence is shattered by tragedy when Maria is diagnosed with cervical cancer, a battle she ultimately loses in 2019. This heartbreaking twist brings an intense depth to the film and sets the stage for a raw exploration of the family’s journey toward healing.
A Shift in Reality: From Idyllic Living to Hard Choices
Following Maria’s death, the family’s reality shifts dramatically. Nik struggles not only with the burden of loss but also the practical implications of their way of life. Without Maria’s income from her photography career, they can no longer afford their beloved farm, forcing them to relocate to a much smaller home and send the children to conventional schools. This transition raises questions about their previous self-sufficiency. It becomes evident that their life was not as "off-grid" as they had portrayed; rather, it was partly a carefully curated image for public consumption.
Nik’s Emotional Turmoil: A Breadwinner’s Dilemma
As Nik navigates his grief, he faces the stark realities of being a single parent and breadwinner. His emotional turmoil is compounded by feelings of self-reproach, triggering thoughts of moving the children back to England where family support awaits. However, the prospect casts a shadow of disloyalty to Maria in Nik’s mind, illustrating the complexities of love, commitment, and the interwoven tapestry of loss.
Ronja’s Struggles: Navigating Family Dynamics
Meanwhile, Ronja’s return to live with her father signals her own emotional journey. The film reveals her estrangement from her half-siblings, particularly Freja. This strained relationship culminates in Ronja’s decision to leave for Bodø in Nordland, where she trains to become a midwife. This choice, perhaps rooted in unacknowledged anger, adds layers of emotional complexity to the narrative, raising questions about loyalty and belonging in the wake of tragedy.
Resilience and Moving Forward: A Bittersweet Conclusion
As the children begin to mature and find their paths, Nik’s journey proves to be more arduous. A New Kind of Wilderness culminates in a deeply moving portrayal of resilience and hope intertwined with the scars of grief. Just as viewers think the story concludes, Jacobsen surprises them with a brilliant touch—a direction to Maria’s blog, “The Letting Go.” This insightful addition invites audiences to revisit the film, enhancing their understanding of its emotional depth.
A Masterful Exploration of Humanity
In sum, A New Kind of Wilderness resonates on multiple levels, offering a raw, heartfelt glimpse into a family navigating the tumultuous waters of loss. It is a testament to the transformative power of love, showcasing the intricate complexities of human relationships in the face of unimaginable sorrow. This emotionally rich documentary is a must-see, inviting reflection on the themes of grief, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of family.
A New Kind of Wilderness opens in UK and Irish cinemas on 16 May—a date worth marking on your calendar for an experience that promises to linger long after the credits roll.
Explore More
If you’re interested in diving deeper, check out Maria’s blog for insights into her life and philosophy.
Whether you seek a gripping narrative of human endurance or a contemplative exploration of life’s fragility, A New Kind of Wilderness delivers an unforgettable journey through its beautiful, albeit painful, storytelling.
