A River Below

A River Below is a thought-provoking, complex, and even controversial documentary style film that arrived in theatres in 2017. Directed by Mark Grieco, the film provides an in-depth look at the intricate conservation challenges involving the Amazon River's pink river dolphin, also known as 'botos,' which is on the brink of extinction.

The film predominantly features two central figures: Richard Rasmussen, a renowned Brazilian television wildlife personality often regarded as the "Brazilian Steve Irwin," and Fernando Trujillo, a leading Colombian marine biologist who has dedicated his life to working within the Amazon river system.

A River Below moves forward along a gripping narrative that is underlined by profound ethical questions. It sheds light on the dangerous journey of these two passionate individuals as they strive to save the dwindling pink river dolphin species whose existence is threatened by mass hunting and environmental changes in the Amazon.

Richard Rasmussen, widely known for his audacious methods and supercharged enthusiastic persona, is seen using his influence and platform to elevate the plight of these creatures to a broader audience. On the other hand, Fernando Trujillo, more reserved and analytical, is questioned for his methods as he works against the clock to produce scientific evidence that the boto population is under significant stress.

The central storyline revolves around the perplexing truth of an unintentionally cruel dynamic where the death of the boto dolphins directly supports the livelihood of local fishers. Due to popularity and demand, the dolphins' flesh is used as bait for a particular species of catfish, piracatinga, which is a robust local industry. Unearthing this underground but deadly economy showcases the intertwined complexity of ecology, economy, and social structures.

Throughout the movie A River Below, conflicts arise not just from the primary threat to the dolphins but also from the ripple effect produced by the actions of our protagonists. The tense advocates' journey indirectly impacts local communities, law enforcement, and large-scale industrial operations, showing the viewer that the conservation of nature is not merely about preserving animals but also dealing with the intricate web of human factors and interests involved.

As the film delves into more profound layers, we confront heated confrontations, underground black markets, and ethical dilemmas that truly test the boundaries of what one would do to protect nature. The plot's depth exhibits a clear reflection of the challenges one faces in the name of wildlife preservation and what it essentially means to 'do the right thing.'

One of the main ways the film stands out is by not taking any particular sides. Instead, it challenges the viewer to question if the ends truly justify the means. Grieco skillfully presents a balanced narrative by taking a step back and allowing situations to unravel organically, resulting in a thought-provoking tale that is both unsettling and revealing at the same time.

Given the film's setting, the cinematography of A River Below is quite remarkable. The vivid, captivating images of the Amazon's daunting beauty, its vibrant but fragile ecosystem, and the breathtaking underwater shots of the boto dolphins make it a visual treat.

The film further enhances the viewers' emotional connection to the storyline through a haunting and soulful musical score. Composed by Tyler Strickland, the music serves as a perfect backdrop accompanying the viewer through the highs and lows of this conservation journey.

A River Below isn't merely a wildlife documentary. It's an exploration into the costs and consequences of activism. By focusing on the struggle to save a single species in the Amazon river's intricate ecosystem, it addresses the larger issue of our relationship with nature. It forces the viewers to delve past superficial understanding and explore the convoluted realities of wildlife conservation, making it a document of immense moral complexity.

Dealing with subjects as delicate as extinction, the documentary balances different tones, embedding the need for passionate activism with the more nuanced understanding required for effective, ethical conservation.

In sum, A River Below is an emotionally-loaded rollercoaster unraveling a tapestry of humans, animals, and the world we share. Despite its moments of discomfort, the film is an important conversation starter continually questioning the anatomy of activism and the lengths to which one should go to bring about change. Its complexity makes it an intriguing watch for anyone interested in wildlife conservation, environmental justice, societal complexities, and ethics.