“Bogancloch”, interview with director Ben Rivers

FRED Film Radio had the pleasure of speaking with director Ben Rivers about his latest film Bogancloch, which is competing at the Locarno Film Festival.

Introduction to “Bogancloch”

Ben Rivers describes Bogancloch as a film set in the Scottish Highlands centred around his friend Jake Williams, who lives in the midst of a vast forest. The film spans a year in Jake’s life, blending different levels of reality to explore his existence in a remote and unspoiled environment.

Returning to Jake’s story

This is not Ben Rivers‘ first film about Jake. He explains that his continued interest in Jake’s way of life and the changes over the past decade compelled him to create another film. “I still find his life very fascinating, and I felt like there was more to do there, more to see and hear,” Rivers says, noting the allure of Jake’s unique lifestyle.

A Distinctive filmmaking approach

Ben Rivers‘ approach to filmmaking is unconventional, blending reality with fictional elements. He emphasizes that Bogancloch is not a traditional documentary: “I’m not interested in telling people facts about his life or any backstory. It’s more open for the audience to think about why he’s there and what his past was.”

Every scene in the film was carefully set up and rehearsed, making it a collaborative effort between Rivers and Jake, which blurs the line between observer and participant.

Filming experience

The filming process was as unique as the film itself. Ben Rivers visited Jake five times over a year, with some days dedicated to intense shooting and others spent walking, thinking, and planning. “It’s not a normal film shoot. It’s a bit more relaxed,” he explains.

Challenges and rewards

Despite the challenges of harsh weather and Jake’s lack of modern conveniences, Rivers found the experience rewarding. “When I look at the footage and see that it was worth freezing and getting soaking wet… that’s very rewarding,” he shares.

Lessons from Jake

Over the years, Jake has taught Rivers the value of living a life with minimal impact on the world. Reflecting on what he’s learned from Jake, Ben Rivers concludes, “It’s about trying to live a life that has less impact on the world and as little harm to other people, animals, and plants as possible.”

Bogancloch is a film that challenges conventional documentary filmmaking, offering audiences a chance to immerse themselves in a world that is as much about feelings and imagination as it is about the subject’s reality. Rivers’ thoughtful approach to the film, combined with his deep connection to Jake, creates a cinematic experience that invites reflection and introspection.

Plot