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Photo: Marie Leclère in Paris

Interview by Emmanuel Itier

-What attracted you to canyoning?

This sport, canyoning, is an amazing and unique endeavor that allows you to discover and explore areas you couldn’t access normally. You really get to enter the heart of nature, of water falls. It’s so amazing and mesmerizing once you’re part of these wonders. It’s incredible to discover all of what nature has to offer deep within itself. Usually you see these place from high above or a close distance but with this sport you are part of it, you are “it”. It truly makes you feel like ONE with nature.

-Why go film in Chile?

Well, with our team “Regard sur l’Aventure” we had a good knowledge of Chile and its wonderful possibilities for canyoning. Chile is truly a “gold mine” for us and this was an offer we couldn’t pass on when it presented itself. For a nature lover I think that Chile is a must country to visit and explore

-What types of challenges did you face filming this Doc?

It’s not so easy to film yourself the footage you need while doing the stunts we had to do to go through some of these falls. It was very risky and time consuming. And oyu always have to be very careful because an accident can happen in a split second. At the end I’m breathless when I look at what we captured and filmed. This is an amazing ride!

-What was the message and the impact you wanted to inspire with this project?

My goal was to really put the audience in the heart of this wonderful, edgy and transformative experience that is canyoning. And I think this is almost an out of body experience when you will watch our Documentary. This film is an invitation to partake to something bigger than you, bigger than life. It’s an invitation to dare to go beyond our own habilities and to take a leap of faith to accomplish something extraordinary. Sometimes you need to challenge yourself and canyoning is exactly about this change you want to see in your life.

-What will be your best and worse memory from making this film?

My best souvenir will remain my first encounter and conversation with Regis Paquet and how I was able to join the expedition in order to shoot this documentary. There is no worse memory. When I look at what we accomplished I only see wonderful memories that will remain forever printed in my soul. I’m so blessed and thankful for this adventure.

- Congrats on your great trailer

Rios Patagonicos

Director: Marie Leclère and Bruno Fromento

Country of Origin: France
2018

For several years, the association Regard sur L’Aventure has been organising scientific exploration and sportive expeditions.

In 2018, the “Rios Patagonicos” expedition took 15 canyoneers to stride the immensity of Chilean Patagonia, in search for rivers and waterfalls. Their goal: explore untouched territories, spot and open over 30 canyons, on a unique territory, where canyoneering discipline is close to non-existent.

For some, “Rios Patagonicos” is the opportunity to go on an expedition for the first time. For others, more skilled canyoneers, the occasion to share their experience, at times on a difficult terrain.

In the heart of Patagonian glacier valleys, all gather around a same desire: share a sportive and humane adventure. A trip which will thrill the expedition members, awake fears in commitment, and group cohesion.

Igniting Passion for Nature through Film the festival runs 9-18 Oct online.