UBIQUITY

"Ubiquity," a thought-provoking documentary by Bregtje van der Haak, delves into the lives of individuals who claim to be hypersensitive to electromagnetic radiation from wireless networks. As our digital world expands, connecting everyone, everywhere, anytime, these individuals find themselves on the fringes of society, seeking refuge from the invisible waves that permeate our environment.

The film poses a crucial question: Are these electro-sensitives "canaries in the coal mine," warning us of potential dangers in our wireless world? Through intimate portrayals of their struggles, "Ubiquity" offers a poignant exploration of the price of constant connectivity and the lives of those who feel besieged by invisible networks.

Cinematographer Jean Counet faced a unique challenge in capturing the story of one of the main subjects, who was even sensitive to the batteries in a car key fob. To overcome this, the team opted for an antique, hand-cranked Bolex camera, allowing them to film without exposing the subject to electronic devices. This mechanical camera could only record for 10 seconds at a time before needing to be rewound, adding a distinctive visual texture to the film.

"Ubiquity" has been praised as "a truly important film" and "a potent warning sign for excessive use of technologies" by Get Reel Movies. The documentary has been featured at several prestigious film festivals, including Hot Docs, where it was noted for addressing "something unsettling about the way we live now."

As wireless technology continues to advance, "Ubiquity" serves as a timely and crucial examination of its potential consequences, challenging viewers to reconsider their relationship with the digital world.

Writer and director: Bregtje van der Haak
Director of photography: Jean Counet & Maasja Ooms
Sound: Rik Meier, Sam Huisman, Tim van Peppen, Mark Wessner
Editor: Xander Nijsten
Sound designer: Vincent Sinceretti
Composer: Juho Nurmela
Research: Wiesje Kuijpers
Commissioning editor: Barbara Truyen, VPRO
Co-producer: Hanne Phlypo, Clin d'oeil films
Producers: Katja Draaijer, Frank Hoeve, Baldr Film

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