Dare to Leap A collaboration of human spirit and evolution of science

The film expresses the emotional and energetic journey felt both on and off screen. Presenting the intensity, beauty and obstacles of shooting in the South Pacific soon after lockdown release and the innate challenges of world first feat at the mercy of Mother Nature.

Stefan José, Director & DOP says: 

“From the treatment stage I had a very clear and particularly ambitious vision for this project. Visually I wanted the film to feel immersive; making the audience feel like they are there, washed along by the same current and wind, exposed to the same challenges and witness to a frontier of human achievement being forged. The collaboration and individual expertise of each crew member and post artist was integral to not only pulling off the feat itself but to execute every detail for the vision of the film. Something I am forever grateful to each and every person involved in this project”.

Directed by Director / DOP Stefan José (Iconoclast) and edited by award-winning Editor, Andrew Holmes (Heckler), the duo over a two week period crafted the initial vision, narrative, rhythm, and approach, reliving the shoot with multiple cameras. The refinement process and final result was the product of thousands of micro decisions from both José and Holmes, who share the same energy which merges the line between job and passion. 

Says Andrew, Lead Editor: 

“As an editor visual storytelling is everything. You’re entrusted to understand how an audience will interpret the story, so you must make the most of that responsibility. Stefan and I knew we had something special. When collaborating with Stefan the creative process unfolded naturally. It is a beautiful thing to craft a film that will take your audience on a journey like this one”.

Equally, José’s work with Heckler Sound’s Senior Sound Designer, Dave Robertson and Californian Composer Dustin Lau was multi-layered and uniquely crafted. Robertson delivers the dynamic nature through his sound design by bringing in real world sounds captured on location in Samoa with a finely calibrated mix of ambient sound effects. Lau and José bring electronica-inspired sounds representing the rational, scientific world, while acoustic and analogue instrumentation represent the more personalized, human perspective of the kitesurfer Olivia Jenkins. Both the film score and mix was crafted through the collaboration of José’s vision and ear, Holmes’s edit, Robertson’s and Lau’s execution, serving the narrative and tone to compliment the elevated visuals. 

This film offers an insight into the nature of organic film production met with carefully curated post production and the unique experience of the unification and magic of collaboration. Iconoclast, TLGG, Heckler and Leaps By Bayer have unleashed a new wave for working globally and remotely allowing for the creative industry to leap into the future. 

Heckler occupies the iconic Paramount House, Surry Hills. For new project enquiries please contact coralie@heckler.tv or will@heckler.tv