Green Antarctica

"Green Antarctica" delves into the depths of the Antarctic Peninsula, one of the most extreme and remote places on Earth, to explore the clues this region can provide about climate change. The film follows the challenging journey led by Edson Vandeira, a renowned Brazilian photographer and adventurer, with over 500 days dedicated to the Brazilian Antarctic Program, along with a group of five scientists.

Embarked on a polar ship of the Brazilian Navy, Vandeira and the scientists set course for Marambio Island. They seek clues from the past, including dinosaur bones, marine reptiles, and other organisms that inhabited the continent millions of years ago, proving that Antarctica was once covered by a vast forest.

Throughout the 60-day expedition, the documentary captures not only the physical and mental challenges the team faces but also the climatic surprises that emerge, like the highest temperature ever recorded in the continent's history, reaching 18 degrees Celsius (64.4 degrees Fahrenheit) positive. The consequences include heavy rains, reduced snow cover, and the dramatic transformation of Marambio Island into a muddy landscape.

The film offers an intimate view of the challenges faced by Vandeira, who takes on the role of the group's leader. In moments of tension, he must keep the team's morale high and ensure everyone's safety.

"Green Antarctica" not only documents the quest for clues about climate change but also explores the human and emotional aspects of this expedition. The film delves into the lives of the team members, revealing their motivations, connections, and actions in the face of an extremely challenging environment.

In the end, the audience is invited to reflect on the relationship between the drastic changes occurring in the icy continent and the delicate balance of the climate worldwide. Can Antarctica return to being covered by a forest? What would be the consequences of this?