Lily of Allsaints

This documentary explores Laelia anceps, known as the "Lily of All Saints," and its connection to Mexico's landscapes and traditions. The film begins in Veracruz, where this epiphytic orchid thrives in cloud forests and oak woodlands, and follows its cultural significance in Día de los Muertos celebrations.

The journey documents the orchid's history, from its colonial-era exploitation to its current endangered status due to habitat loss and illegal collection. Researchers conduct drone surveys and field studies to assess its population, revealing both conservation challenges and resilient ecosystems that still support these orchids.

In Oaxaca, the team searches for rare orchid species in isolated mountain ranges, encountering Laelia halbingeriana, Artorima erubescens, and Laelia furfuracea. Along the way, they witness the impact of agriculture and deforestation, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation. Despite the threats, the film highlights local efforts to protect these orchids and preserve Mexico’s unique biodiversity.

Through breathtaking footage and scientific documentation, The Lily of All Saints showcases the fragile beauty of Mexico’s orchids and the importance of protecting them before they disappear.