Interview with Filmmaker Erik Nelson (THE BOUNDARY WATERS TRAVERSE)

THE BOUNDARY WATERS TRAVERSE, 12min., USA, Documentary
Directed Erik Nelson
The Running for the Boundary Waters project is designed to highlight the issue of potential sulfide-ore copper mining proposals in the watershed of, and directly adjacent to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness to the running community. Trail runners and environmental advocate Alex Falconer ran the Border Route and Kekekabic trail, creating the boundary waters traverse, a 110 mile run, in 38 hrs 15 mins and 3 seconds. This shows his journey.

https://www.savetheboundarywaters.org/
https://www.instagram.com/savethebwca/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I’ve always been a big fan of the Boundary Waters, having paddled and camped there many times over the years. When the opportunity came to put our filmmaking skills to use and help spread the word of Alex’s run and the fight to protect such a special place, we had to do it.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
5 months

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Wild Places

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Alex’s run took place across about two days through deep deep wilderness. We had to figure out where he was going to cross roads or major trails so we could be there to meet him and film his progress. A lot of those meetups occurred during the night or during rain, so the logistics of catching up to Alex and getting footage of the run itself was pretty difficult.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It’s really really cool to be able to introduce people to a place we feel so strongly about.

Watch the Audience Feedback Video:

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I watched Reservoir Dogs in 8th grade and I was hooked.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Apocalypse Now

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Networking is always helpful

9. What is your favorite meal?
Swedish Meatballs