Synopsis

Can shortcuts across lawns tell us something about our treatment of the earth?

Screenings

Through distant observation of people walking on desire lines, a filmmaker notices a pattern in peoples tendency to cut corners, and reflects on what this might mean for the future of our planet.


‘Desire Lines’ are the official name given to the unofficial paths created as a consequence of erosion by human or animal footfall. These paths usually represent the shortest or most easily navigated route between an origin and destination.


What do desire lines say about human nature and our attitude towards the changing climate? Are we doomed to always take the path of least resistance? Or can we still be saved by collectively forging a new path together?

The film is screened as a part of the festival's short film programme.

About the director:
Duncan Cowles is an award-winning documentary filmmaker from Scotland. In recent years, he has also written and recorded documentaries for, among others, Channel 4 and BBC Scotland.