Descending the Mountain is a captivating documentary directed by Maartje Nevejan that explores the intersection of psilocybin and meditation in a groundbreaking scientific experiment. Premiering in the fall of 2021, the film has been widely praised for its innovative approach to depicting mystical experiences and its exploration of consciousness, garnering accolades at various international film festivals.
Set on Mount Rigi in Switzerland, psychiatrist Franz Vollenweider and Zen master Vanja Palmers conduct a unique study involving experienced Zen practitioners who have never used psychedelics. On the final day of a five-day retreat, one group receives psilocybin, while another is given a placebo. The experiment aims to expand our understanding of consciousness and investigate the potential of psychedelics in mental health treatment.
Nevejan's film breaks new ground visually, leaving behind the iconic imagery of the 1960s psychedelic era. Instead, it employs animation, AI-generated art, and a mesmerizing soundscape to create a contemporary visual language for transcendent experiences. These techniques evoke the profound sense of unity with nature experienced by participants, immersing viewers in their journey.
Jean Counet's cinematography plays a vital role in capturing the unseen world of this experiment. Once again tasked with filming something seemingly impossible—this time, the underground network and invisible connections within the world of mushrooms—Counet brought his trademark ingenuity to the project and he managed. The collaboration with sound designer Alex Booij and VFX artist Douwe Dijkstra was essential in achieving this immersive experience.
The documentary not only showcases the experiment but also delves into broader themes about human connection, environmental awareness, and the transformative potential of psychedelics. Critics have praised its bold artistic direction, with many describing it as a mesmerizing exploration of inner transformation and our relationship with nature.
Descending the Mountain is more than a documentary; it is an immersive journey into expanded consciousness. By combining scientific inquiry with artistic innovation, Nevejan invites viewers to reflect on how ancient practices like meditation can intersect with modern discoveries to reshape our understanding of ourselves and our place in nature.
Writer and director: Maartje Nevejan
Director of photography: Jean Charles Counet, NSC
Sound: Fokke van Saane
Editor: Gys Zevenbergen
Sound designer: Fokke van Saane & Alex Booy
Director of photography: Jean Charles Counet, NSC
Sound: Fokke van Saane
Editor: Gys Zevenbergen
Sound designer: Fokke van Saane & Alex Booy
Drone, 2nd unit: Christian Mülhauser
Production Global Inside: Milly Schloss
Production Switzerland: Annette Badenhorst
Assistant editor: Sandro Ligtenberg
Titles, mycelial graphics: Rogério Lira
Archive research: Milly Schloss
Lighting mushrooms: Mas Jansma
Animation and VFX artist: Douwe Dijkstra
A.I. creator and producer: Seyhan Lee
A.I. director: Pinar Seyhan Demirdag
A.I. artist: Feileacan McCormick
Music: Cosmo Sheldrake
Original music: Michel Banabila
Production Switzerland: Annette Badenhorst
Assistant editor: Sandro Ligtenberg
Titles, mycelial graphics: Rogério Lira
Archive research: Milly Schloss
Lighting mushrooms: Mas Jansma
Animation and VFX artist: Douwe Dijkstra
A.I. creator and producer: Seyhan Lee
A.I. director: Pinar Seyhan Demirdag
A.I. artist: Feileacan McCormick
Music: Cosmo Sheldrake
Original music: Michel Banabila
© 2021 Global Inside
www.descendingthemountain.org
