A New Look at Art and Science: Behind the Scenes of the “Phenomena” Documentary Premiere
New Documentary "Phenomena" Set to Premiere at True/False Film Festival
Columbia, MO — The new documentary Phenomena, directed by Josef Gatti, is scheduled to premiere this Thursday at the True/False Film Festival. The film has been described as "a psychedelic odyssey into the fabric of the universe."
This visually captivating documentary will later make its European debut at CPH:DOX in Copenhagen, following its initial screening in Columbia. Produced by Sandbox Films and Radiolab’s Jad Abumrad, Phenomena promises an immersive experience unlike any other.
Featuring an original score by Nils Frahm and electronic music from Rival Consoles, Phenomena is presented without visual effects. According to its synopsis, "Josef Gatti’s unfolding awe-inspiring hyper-real imagery is elevated by the ethereal score, transforming curious observation into a hypnotic adventure spanning from the subatomic to cosmological scales. Tracing the forces and elements shaping the natural world, Phenomena is a kinetic sensory experience, exploring the wonders of the universe and our connection to it."
This film marks a significant milestone for Gatti, serving as his feature directorial debut. Previously, he developed a multi-platform version of Phenomena, which was recognized as one of the top Australian series of 2021 by The Guardian and screened at major international film festivals.
"This film comes from a near decade-long adventure where I’ve been obsessively documenting the beauty and intricacies of nature in the most unlikely places," Gatti stated. "I’m humbled to have partnered with Sandbox Films to bring Phenomena into its ultimate form, and I can’t wait for you to experience this epic odyssey on the big screen."
Producer Rob Innes shared his enthusiasm, noting, "Partnering with Josef has been an extraordinary creative journey. His singular vision and cinematography skills reveal the world in ways few filmmakers can. Phenomena feels both an urgent and essential experience for our time."
Phenomena is a joint production from Gatti and Mashup Pictures, backed financially by Sandbox Films and Screen Australia, in collaboration with VicScreen. The project boasts a comprehensive credit list including Gatti as the writer, director, producer, and editor, along with contributions from producer Rob Innes and co-writers Joseph Nizeti and Johanna Scott.
Jessica Harrop, executive director of Sandbox Films, expressed her excitement about the project, stating, "Phenomena is a spectacular audio-visual ride, unlike anything I’ve ever seen. We are beyond excited to share this adventure with the world… Ready to blow some minds!"
Richard Huddleston, Head of Documentary at Screen Australia, praised the film’s ambition, saying, "Ambitiously fusing science with artistic imagination, Phenomena is a magical reimagining of documentary filmmaking. Josef Gatti and the gifted production team have created an experience that is as visually explosive as it is intellectually grounded."
The teaser clip for Phenomena is now available for viewing.
