The Mystery of the Denisova Humans explores the groundbreaking discovery of a new human species in Siberia, revealing a mysterious chapter of human history. In 2008, archaeologists unearthed a small bone, which genetic tests later identified as belonging to a prehistoric human, neither modern human nor Neanderthal, but a third, unknown species. Named the Denisovans after the cave in which the bone was found, this discovery sparked a global scientific journey. The documentary follows expeditions from Europe to Tibet and Papua New Guinea, as researchers search for more evidence to uncover who the Denisovans were, how they lived and their connection to modern humans. Through this thrilling exploration, the film pieces together the enigmatic story of a lost human lineage.
Screening: Saturday, May 17th, 9:36 - 10:27 AM,The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 50 min
Country: France
Language: French
Director: Guy Beauché
Producer(s): Galaxie
Distributor: France TV Distribution
The rebirth of Mesopotamian archaeology marks a pivotal moment in the history of Iraq’s archaeological journey. After a 50-year hiatus, archaeologists are returning to the ancient sites of Mesopotamia, at a time when postwar reconstruction offers both challenges and opportunities. With advanced technology and innovative research methods, this new generation of archaeologists is able to uncover fresh insights into the birth and growth of the first cities. At the same time, they are dedicated to preserving the region’s rich cultural heritage, safeguarding it for future generations. Mesopotamia: The Rise of Cities highlights the delicate balance between discovery and conservation, shedding new light on the cradle of civilization.
Screening: Sunday, May 18th, 5:55-6:48 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 52 min
Country: France
Language: Arabic, English, French, Italian
Director: Olivier Julien
Producer(s): Gedeon Programmes, ARTE France, Stéphane Millière, Valérie Guérin
Distributor: Terranoa
Luckless Lake explores the tragic story of Bakhtegan Wetland, a once-thriving ecosystem in Iran now on the brink of destruction. Spanning over 41,000 square kilometers, the wetland has been a vital water source for the plateau, supporting both wildlife and human life for centuries. For 800 years, nomadic tribes, like the "ChaharRahi," have migrated through this land, adapting to its seasonal cycles. However, the wetland, much like the nearby Lake Urmia , has fallen victim to severe drought and mismanagement, pushing it to the edge of collapse. The documentary captures the profound changes, from the disintegration of traditional nomadic life to the transformation of the land into a barren "Badland." As humans struggle to adapt, the film questions our ability to understand and live in harmony with nature, exploring the painful consequences of ignoring its delicate balance.
Screening: Thursday, May 15th, 8:44 - 9:48 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 63 min
Country: Iran
Language: Persian
Director: Faraz Fadaian
Producer(s): Faraz Fadaian, Elaheh Nobakh, Reza Taba
Distributor: Elaheh Nobakht
IZNIK: The Sunken Enigma follows the intriguing discovery in 2014 by a Turkish archaeologist of the foundations of a Byzantine basilica submerged in Lake Iznik, near Istanbul. An international team of French, Turkish, Swiss, and American researchers embarks on an excavation to uncover the mysterious history of this sunken structure. Why is it under water? What tragic event lies hidden at the lake’s bottom? As the team delves deeper, they uncover secrets tied to Iznik’s ancient past as the Roman city of Nicaea. Dating back to the 4th century, this site is crucial to the early development of Christianity. The excavations peel back layers of history, revealing a fascinating story of faith, empire and tragedy from a long-lost world.
Screening: Friday, May 16th, 8:30 - 9:55 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 84 min
Country: France
Language: English, French, Italian, Turkish
Director: Pascal Guérin
Producer(s): Les Batelieres Productions, Julie Guesnon Amarante, Justine Henochsberg
Distributor: ZED Distribution
Hunt for the Oldest DNA chronicles the remarkable journey of Eske Willerslev, a pioneering biologist whose obsession with unlocking the past through ancient DNA led to a groundbreaking discovery. Twenty years ago, Willerslev proposed a radical idea: could DNA survive intact in frozen sediment for millennia? Despite skepticism from the scientific community, his perseverance paid off, culminating in the recovery of DNA from a lush, pre-Ice Age forest ecosystem over two million years old. This stunning breakthrough reshapes our understanding of ancient life, revealing species from the Earth’s last warm epoch. With the ability to reconstruct vanished ecosystems, scientists can now use DNA to explore the deep past—and apply these insights to address modern climate challenges.
Screening: Sunday, May 18th, 10:06-11:31 AM
Length: 84 min
Country: Canada
Language: Danish, English
Director: Handful of Films, NOVA, Tangled Banks Studios
Producer(s): Niobe Thompson
Distributor: PBS International
The Islay of Whisky explores the origins of one of Scotland's most iconic spirits, whisky, which is produced in large quantities on the small island of Islay. Director Andrea Lazzari embarks on a journey to uncover the ancient history of whisky, tracing its roots to a time around 700 years ago, when the island may have first given birth to this beloved drink. The documentary delves into Islay’s rich heritage, its unique peat-infused whisky-making process and the cultural significance of the spirit in the island’s history. Lazzari’s exploration reveals the deep, intertwined connection between Islay and the drink that has shaped its identity for centuries.
Screening: Saturday, May 17th, 4:15 - 4:26 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 10 min
Country: Italy
Language: English
Director: Andrea Lazzari
Executive Producer: WAAMOZ s.r.l
Distributor: WAAMOZ s.r.l
In this film we go back 500,000 years to explore the untold story of Homo heidelbergensis, the first human species to inhabit the European continent. Living between 560,000 and 400,000 BC, these early ancestors of the Neanderthals survived harsh ice ages and rapid climate changes, adapting to shifting environments filled with ever-evolving prey and predators. Coming from Africa, they slowly colonized Europe, raising their children in a world where, astonishingly, they may not yet have mastered fire. From Italy to Spain, and from England to Germany, archaeologists are now uncovering the traces of this mysterious and largely unknown period. This journey into the distant past reveals the resilience, ingenuity and secrets of Homo heidelbergensis, shedding new light on the foundations of human history.
Screening: Sunday, May 18th, 11:39 -12:32 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 52 min
Country: France
Language: French, Spanish
Director: Emma Baus
Producer(s): Tangerine Productions, Minimum Moderne, Anne Labro, Eric Dufour
Distributor: Tangerine Productions
eXpedition : Flint - The Gold of Prehistory is a Dutch youth documentary series that brings history, archaeology and culture to life for young audiences. In this episode, an archaeologist and a YouTuber embark on a journey to uncover the profound impact of flint tools—arguably the most important invention in human history. For over two million years, flint was essential to survival, from hunting to making clothing and starting fires. The episode delves into the fascinating process of flint mining, especially in the Limburg region of the Netherlands, where prehistoric people excavated deep shafts to access high-quality flint. This flint, traded across Europe, was crucial before the Bronze Age took over. This film takes viewers into the heart of this ancient craft, exploring its pivotal role in shaping early human societies and their technological advancements.
Screening: Sunday, May 18th, 2:39-2:50 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 10 min
Country: Netherlands
Language:
Director: Robin Peeters
Producer(s): Robin Peeters
Distributor: Mosasaurus Film Productions
In 2019, a remarkable discovery in Aleria, Corsica, reignited interest in the island’s Etruscan past. While excavating a Roman necropolis, archaeologists uncovered a fourth-century BC Etruscan burial site, revealing the skeleton of a woman surrounded by rich grave goods. This find highlights the Etruscans’ significant but enigmatic influence on ancient history. Known for their prosperity and artistic achievements, the Etruscans dominated central Italy and parts of Corsica before their decline at the hands of the rising Roman Empire. This documentary traces their legacy, exploring their art, culture and eventual fall . Guided by archaeologists and historians, we journey through France and Italy to piece together the story of a civilization that shaped the ancient world, but could not withstand the power of Rome.
Screening: Sunday, May 18th, 1:00-2:31 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 90 min
Country: France
Language: French
Director: Alexis de Favitski
Producer(s): Fabrice Papillon
Distributor: Arte
This film tells the inspiring story of James Brown, a man whose childhood in a small Glasgow apartment with nine siblings sparked a lifelong fascination with castles. In 1952, a visit to Ardrossan Castle left a lasting impression, igniting his dream of owning one. As an adult, he faced numerous challenges, but remained determined to fulfill his ambition, ultimately acquiring Baltersan Castle. Despite setbacks, including financial and restoration hurdles, James’ unwavering resilience drove him to restore the castle to its former glory. This documentary explores his journey, highlighting the passion, persistence and dedication behind his remarkable pursuit of a dream against all odds.
Screening: Thursday, May 17th, 7:06-7:43 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 35 min
Country: United Kingdom
Language: English
Director: Monika Deupala
Producer(s): Monika Deupala
Distributor: Monika Deupala
The Black Italian Renaissance uncovers the untold stories of African and Afro-descendant individuals who lived and were immortalized in Renaissance Italy. Within the hallowed halls of the Uffizi Gallery, the majestic Venetian palaces and the grand churches of Rome, their likenesses appear in masterpieces by artists like Botticelli, Tiziano and Pontormo. Who were these people, and why were they portrayed? The film delves into their lives, tracing their origins, social roles and significance in Renaissance society. Through expert interviews and an exploration of historical archives, it reveals a rich, multiethnic world, where the complexity of race, class and power shaped the era’s cultural fabric. The Black Italian Renaissance sheds light on a forgotten chapter, highlighting the contributions and experiences of African and Afro-descendant figures often overlooked in mainstream history.
Screening: Saturday, May 17th, 5:27 - 6:57 PM, The Shedd Recital Hall
Length: 89 min
Country: Italy
Language: English, Italian
Director: Cristian Di Mattia
Producer(s): SKY, TIWI
Distributor: NBCU