PARK Hwansung
Lions are known to dislike water. However, in Malawi, Africa even lions have to live with water in order to survive. The shortage of water in Africa forces wildlife to join a great migrant trail when the dry season reaches its peak. Unfortunately, humans always occupy wet areas or the paths that lead to them, making it almost impossible to avoid a clash between humans and wildlife.
Whether it is out of greed or survival, territorial conflict has been a common phenomenon to both humans and
animals. Furthermore, not only is war common between two parties that belong to two completely different worlds,
but also between parties from the same side. Throughout history, humans have always been the winners of all
these wars and as a result they are on top of the ecosystem. The territories for animals are decided by humans and
anything crossing the boundaries has to face the brutal consequences. But when it is inevitable for their own
survival, territories become meaningless.
Lake Malawi is located in Central Africa. It is the third biggest lake in Africa and inscribed as a UNESCO world
heritage site. The famous explorer Livingstone once called it ¡®the lake of stars¡¯. And yet, instead of being smitten
with the beauty of Malawi, the director turns to the fierce struggles and survival in it: that is, the conflict between
human and animal. However, it is not just a ritual fight over water in the dry season. As a matter of fact, humans
crossed the boundary first. Therefore, the provocation by animals is a matter of course. The natives once made a
comfortable living, thanks to the abundant fish in the lake. But now they have to fight each other for a good spot and
migrate to look for fertile soil that is in animal territory. It is time for the two parties, as well as the humans among
themselves, to find ways to coexist. [Kang Seok-pil / Via: 3th DMZ Docs]
PARK Hwansung
Park Hwan-sung majored in biology and video production. He has focused on making environmental documentaries for more than 10 years. His works have been aired on KBS, EBS, etc. His major works include Black Kite (2004), A Baby Lemur of Madagascar (2007) and Sad Pierrot (2010). Park also made Malawi, The War for Water which won the best picture in the independent production category of the 22nd Korea PD Award.
The Shadow of Sundarbans (2012)
Wanderers of Kalahari, Meercat and Bushmen (2010)
Malawi, War for Water (2009)
The Pilgrim of Tundra, Caribou (2008)
Lemurs of Madagascar (2007)
Black Kite (2004)I
n the Name of the Father (2016)
The Secret of Survival (2015)
A Secret Desire, Lion Hunt (2013)
Production Company Blue Rhino Pictures