The Strez

The Strez

Advances in filmmaking technologies, such as drone-mounted cameras and wearable action cameras has expanded the stylistic and narrative possibilities for adventure filmmakers. No longer restricted by heavy equipment and lengthy setup times, it has now become more viable for filmmakers to capture authentic action as it unfolds and for lower budget productions to produce imagery of high production quality. Such new production capabilities require traditional adventure filmmakers to rethink their production methods and expand narrative and stylistic possibilities. Initially planned as an outback adventure motorcycle documentary, this practice-led research project set out to examine the use of drones, wearable and handheld cameras, and to gain a deeper understanding of the expanding possibilities for aesthetic form, style, and characteristics of extreme sports films. Through a series of unexpected events, what emerged from the research was a very different and impactful documentary about families, dealing with loss, and overcoming significant environmental challenges. The film, a 57-minute documentary titled The Strez, provides empirical evidence of the aesthetic and narrative power of adapting to emergent opportunities to tell authentic and powerful stories with high production values.

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