Letters from the Big Man

The green wilderness of southwestern Oregon, the site of many environmental battles (see If a Tree Falls), is the location for this audacious narrative. Sarah (Lily Rabe, daughter of actor Jill Clayburgh) heads into the forest to conduct a survey into the impact of a major fire on a remote valley. With a backpack and a sketch pad, the athletic blonde tramps the creekside, revelling in nature and being alone after a recent breakup. Before long, however, her solitude is interrupted by a half-glimpsed figure, who is ultimately revealed to be a Sasquatch - the legendary American Bigfoot. Back at her cabin, Sarah becomes increasingly alert to the Big Man's presence and sadly more aware that his world is under threat. Christopher Munch (Berlinale winner for The Hours and Times) tells the story quietly yet boldly, making full use of the breathtaking scenery shot with the revolutionary Red camera by regular collaborator Rob Sweeney.

Australian Premiere