As the intense Canadian wildfires continue to make headlines, engulfing New York City in toxic orange smog, this timely and informative documentary seeks to change the way we think about these increasingly hazardous ecological events. Featuring footage from recent natural disasters, including the historic 2018 Camp fire in northern California, the opening places viewers in the heart of the inferno. Bright red flames lick through every inch of the ground, leaving behind a trail of burning wreckage, and waves of smoke turn the morning sky pitch-black.
The sight is terrifying, almost surreal, yet Elemental also aims to debunk outdated myths about wildfires, regularly regurgitated by mainstream media and even forest management departments. An eclectic cohort of experts, who include academics, fire deputies and environmental volunteers, break down long-held misconceptions in a systematic and easy-to-understand fashion. For instance, for decades, logging new plantations has been a favoured method of fire prevention. In reality, however, maintaining old natural forests proves more effective at slowing down the spread of a wildfire as well as shielding populated areas from firestorms.
Among the expert voices are those of the Indigenous Yurok tribe, who had adhered to these methods for generations before colonialism altered how fire was perceived. Far from an unruly monster, the use of fire to regulate the growth of a forest can, in fact, foster greater biodiversity. Impressive in terms of analysis, Elemental is slightly hampered by the narration from David Oyelowo, whose sonorous vocal timbre occasionally dampens the urgency of the issues at hand. A popular trend among nature docs, recorded voiceovers from high-profile actors can be a way to attract more attention. In this case, however, it might have been sufficient to let the subject speak for itself.
• Elemental: Reimagine Wildfire is released on 13 June on digital platforms
