The relationship between humanity and nature is one of extreme complexity. As occupants of this planet, and an influential force upon it, our actions carry indeterminable consequences for the land we’ve made home – defining its future, or conversely, accelerating its deterioration.

Considering the place of mankind on earth, and the role we must play in safeguarding the natural world, Nathan Ceddia directs short film Upsodown – a visual commentary on the dialogue between us. Exploring the disconnect between Earth and humanity, Ceddia employs surreal imagery to intensify the gravitas of the present state of environmental crisis – journeying through the narcissism and distraction that has enabled it, and the naivety of mankind entering an unknown future.

A mirror into human responsibility, captured as a series of vignettes, Upsodown navigates new and surreal landscapes through a nostalgic lens, shot on 16mm and 8mm film in locations around Melbourne, Australia. Visualizing the poignancy of the climate situation and the space we occupy within it, striking sets and panning shots of the natural landscape create a sense of majesty around the living world – with mankind disinterested and emotionless at its core. Imploring viewers to cultivate a deeper connection with their surroundings, and reflect on the importance of the planet we occupy, Upsodown engages the interconnectedness between all living things, and humanity’s power to reshape a fragile situation that remains malleable in our hands.