“This film is your chance to immerse yourself in a world the naked eye can’t see clearly, you’ll be amazed at what you’re missing…”

Join a courageous potter wasp on an enthralling journey! Witness this fascinating insect's tenacity and perseverance as it navigates its dangerous realm teeming with challenges and predators.

Once again we’re delighted to review work from director Roman Willi who we had the opportunity to review the fantastic Kalu - Growing Up Wild back in 2023. This time, Willi takes us on a macro journey into the world of the Potter Wasp and with breathtaking results. Within moments, it’s easy to see that this is a compelling film with the same production standards as any mainstream documentary.

The subject matter is brilliant and totally unique to other documentaries which might not necessarily focus on something as unlikeable as a wasp. It is told in a clear and informative manner that really educates the viewer in a fun way that keeps you watching. Such a topic could only be told with a vast knowledge of both wild life and cinematography which Willi and the team clearly have. In order to tell the story correctly, dynamic visuals would be needed and you get just that. Every shot is well thought out and cut together with precision in order to create a dramatic story. The time and patience to film this must have been extensive, but it certainly paid off as we’re treated to a wonderful film that any audience would enjoy.

Whilst the visuals make a first impact, it’s the premium sound design that really stood out for us along with the epic score from Jack McKenzie. Achieving such a detailed and rich sound for the movements on screen is something only for seasoned filmmakers. It really creates the illusion that we the audience have been shrunk down to the size on an insect to get a glimpse at this stunning and brutal landscape.

McKenzie’ score weaves a wonderful and emotive foundation that connects you to the film. In keeping with other nature documentaries, the classical and poetic themes work perfectly and are mixed delicately with the sound design. The editing of the film would have been an immense undertaking due to the vast amount of footage which then had to be weaved together to make sense of it all. In a relatively short space of time, we are introduced to a range of tiny creatures, the world they live in and the challenges they face. The underlying message is something Willi always finds a way to include and it hit home.

This film is your chance to immerse yourself in a world the naked eye can’t see clearly, you’ll be amazed at what you’re missing. It seems Willi and the team keeps going from strength to strength and we can’t wait to see what they come up with next…

— APEX Film Awards