Lose yourself in this immersive trip into the fascinating world of fungi, as narrated by Björk.

It’s difficult to summarise the far-reaching properties of fungi, even though just under 10 per cent of the millions of species that exist have been described. For one, life on Earth would not be possible without them. They help plants and trees survive, and their great potential is being harnessed to help break down plastic and produce medicine. As UK biologist Dr Merlin Sheldrake traverses Tasmania’s Tarkine rainforest, he guides us through the usually unseen network that keeps more than just this forest alive in a world facing climate threat and unsustainable destruction.

With mesmerising time-lapse footage by Stephen Axford, Patrick Hickey and Wim van Egmond, Fungi: Web of Life follows Sheldrake on a mission to educate the population about fungi’s possibilities, advocate for their preservation and, in his own words, give this kingdom of life “a kingdom’s worth of attention”. Lulled by the soothing narration of Björk – a fellow fungi lover – the 3D documentary comes courtesy of Australian production house Stranger Than Fiction Films, including executive producer Jennifer Peedom (River, MIFF 2021; Sherpa, MIFF 2015). Prepare for a journey that’s both meditative and awe-inspiring.

“Jaw-dropping … Fungi are remarkably cinematic. In their sprouting, tendrilled glory, the organisms are simultaneously majestic and distressing; with 3D, they’re capable of provoking feelings of awe and wonder.” – Dazed Digital

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Please note: All sessions will screen in IMAX 3D.

Writer Catherine Marciniak, executive producer Stephen Axford, producer Jo-Anne McGowan and mycologist Dr Tom May are guests of the festival and will be in attendance at both sessions of the film.