Fire both destroys and regenerates. This motif, which director Liis Nimik spotlights in her opening scene, is emblematic of the circular nature of life, a theme Nimik returns to throughout Sundial. In rural Estonia, each day is measured by the changing seasons and the work that must be done: felling trees, tending to animals, and homeschooling children, with time set aside to appreciate music, games and each other's company. In this exquisite observational documentary, Nimik captures scenes of farming and childrearing with a painter's eye. These are people living off the grid and on their own terms, in sync with the surrounding ecosystem. Shot entirely on 16mm with spare and minimalist sound design, Sundial weaves together a harmonic chorus of nature and community. Here, the natural world strives for balance and every living thing has its unique purpose. Vivian Belik
Tickets are on sale now. Become a Hot Docs member or ticket package holder & save!
Industry All-Access, Conference & Networking, and Conference Pass holders can obtain tickets online from 9pm the night before the screening until one hour before the start time; tickets can also be obtained at the venue box office on the day of the screening.