by FilmInk Staff
Australian director Kasimir Burgess’ latest documentary feature, Iron Winter, has been selected for the International Feature Film Competition at the renowned Visions du Réel International Film Festival in Nyon, Switzerland. The film will have its world premiere at the festival, which runs from April 4-13, 2025.
Iron Winter follows two young Mongolian horse herders who battle extreme winter cold to protect an ancient tradition that risks being lost forever. Set in the Tsakhir Valley of the Arkhangai province, one of the world’s harshest human-inhabited environments, the film captures the herders’ 150-day struggle to lead thousands of horses into the high country in search of edible grass hidden under the snow.
Emilie Bujès, Artistic Director of Visions du Réel, praised the film: “This film masterfully transcends its genre tradition by evolving into an intimate, emotional journey, blending breathtaking visuals with an unexpected vulnerability in its characters. It immerses the audience in the harsh elements alongside two shepherds, unveiling their inner lives with remarkable candor.”
“We are thrilled to premiere Iron Winter at such a prestigious and artistically bold festival,” said Burgess. “This selection validates the universal appeal of our coming-of-age story set in one of the world’s most extraordinary and increasingly hostile natural environments. Although experiencing devastating external pressure from climate change and globalization, our herder’s story is as much about resilience and survival – these qualities deserve to be celebrated.”
Producer Ben Golotta added, “We are incredibly excited to debut Iron Winter at Visions do Réel. This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our entire team and generosity of the Tsakhir community who shared their lives with us. We couldn’t be more excited to share this story for the first time. ”
Iron Winter was conceived as a collaborative project by journalist Edward Cavanough whilst on assignment in Mongolia, and artist Enebish Sengemugaa from Tsakhir who has spent years documenting the traditional nomadic culture of the region. Enebish writes “I’m so happy how this film shares our rare horse culture for the world to see. It will encourage a generation of young and brave Mongolian horsemen to continue a very important tradition.”
Produced by Ben Golotta and Morgan Wright from Repeater Productions in collaboration with Chris Kamen. The film received principal production funding from Screen Australia in association with the Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) Premiere Fund, VicScreen and the South Australian Film Corporation.
Iron Winter will premiere internationally at the 2025 Melbourne International Film Festival; followed by a theatrical release across Australia and New Zealand by Bonsai Films. International distribution will be handled by Journeyman Pictures, a leading UK-based distributor of award-winning documentaries.
Burgess’ previous works include the AACTA award-nominated documentary Franklin and the critically acclaimed thriller Fell.
For more information, please visit https://www.ironwinterfilm.com/
