Remains of a River is a riveting documentary film that channels the potent spirit of exploration, promoting an environmentally conscious theme that aligns with the plight of several of Earth's prominent waterways today. The film is directed by and stars Will Stauffer-Norris and Zak Podmore, wrangling their passion for adventure and environment conservation which translates seamlessly into this compelling journey that covers more than 1,700 miles down the Colorado River.

Primarily, Remains of a River is an eye-opener, a relentless exploration of the Colorado River that begins in Wyoming and culminates at the U.S - Mexico border. The protagonists, Will Stauffer-Norris and Zak Podmore, are two relentless adventurers who set off on this thrilling and captivating journey with a mission to paddle the entire length of the river.

As they set foot in their kayaks, one quickly realizes that the film isn’t just about the adventure, although there are plenty of heart-pounding scenes to that effect. It's mainly about the river and the parallel journey of learning about its past, its current state, and the future that might hold if its true state remains cloudy and unattended.

The journey's commencement is exhilarating, where Stauffer-Norris and Podmore traverse the wild river, surging through the undiluted pristine beauty of its upper reaches, perching above rocky put-ins and syllable-length rapids. Starting with the crisp, clean, free-flowing waters in Wyoming, the duo documents the river's condition at each stage, the impassioned paddlers bring viewers closer to the river and make them experience the river in sumptuous cinematographic detail.

The documentary has a rich narrative blending, chronicling a sense of journey, of history, and an intimate look into the current state and future of the Colorado River. It does not shy away from the alarming themes of diversion, infrastructure, and the effect of man's interference in shaping the river. The river’s beauty and vitality are contrasted sharply with segments that highlight the intense human intervention it bears.

As the journey proceeds, the filmmakers encounter daunting dams, extensive diversions, lush farmlands and barren desert - all are fruits of extracting almost every drop of the river for human use. The film strikes a poignant note when we see the once mighty river turning into a mere trickle, starved of its vitality as it reaches the ocean. The filmmakers use this adventure to underscore the profound impact of human intervention on the health and future of the Colorado River.

Nevertheless, amid the contemplative, solemn tone set by the environmental issues, Stauffer-Norris and Podmore do not cease to strike a human chord. Interactions with locals, river enthusiasts, historians, and conservationists add color and depth to their journey and the film itself. The dialogues, discussions, and anecdotes of local people and experts provide an empathetic perspective on the challenging environmental issues the river faces.

Further, Remains of a River stands out in its technical territory too. The film boasts stunning cinematography, capturing the quintessential American southwest's harsh beauty in its true form. The intense contrasts between the river's higher pristine regions and its lower reaches' dry patches, transformed by human exploitation, are captured with careful cinematography that effectively nudges viewers to understand this grave concern.

The sounds and music in the film are equally commendable, enhancing the immersive experience of the viewer. The original soundtrack contributes to the pulsating rhythm of cruising through waters and the tranquility of the beautiful, natural environments.

On the whole, Remains of a River is a masterfully told story interwoven with Stauffer-Norris's and Podmore's tangible passion for the environment, adventure, and filmmaking. This documentary promotes an urgent cause, inspiring viewers to recognize the importance of maintaining ecological balance and mindful utilization of natural resources. It’s not just a film; it's a call to action that resonates long after the credits roll. It's a must-watch for environmentalists, water conservationists, and adventure enthusiasts alike.