Anthropocene: The Human Epoch

Alicia Vikander narrates a journey around the world visiting sites where humankind has had an horrific impact on the natural world.

As scientists debate whether Earth has tipped over into the Anthropocene, a geological Age defined by human activity's dominance over the environment, narrator Alicia Vikander takes us on a shocking journey traversing machine-sculptured landscapes, polluted cities and a human footprint that can be seen above ground and deep below.

Curator's Note

Marking the third part in a triptych of collaborations between director Jennifer Baichwal, photographer Edward Burtynsky and cinematographer Nicholas de Pencier – all three sharing co-director credits – Anthropocene: The Human Epoch marks the trilogy's most startling and urgent call to action.

Filmed using drone technology, and presenting the earth's surface and its layers from perspectives rarely seen, the end result places viewers in an unnaturally omnipresent position, befitting a broader message of human's overstepping their humble roles.

The film premiered at the 43rd Toronto International Film Festival.