A documentary depicting the life and work of the trappers of Bakhtia, a village in the heart of the Siberian Taiga, where daily life has changed little in over a century.A documentary depicting the life and work of the trappers of Bakhtia, a village in the heart of the Siberian Taiga, where daily life has changed little in over a century.A documentary depicting the life and work of the trappers of Bakhtia, a village in the heart of the Siberian Taiga, where daily life has changed little in over a century.
- Awards
- 1 win total
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Definitely helped cool me down. Witnessing a Siberian winter has that effect on you. I really loved the simple, yet inspiring way of life these people had. No radio, no TV, no internet, no phone - just man and dog vs an endless wilderness. There's something quite appealing about that. It's doubtful I'll ever experience that kind of solitude, but it was great living vicariously through these tough Russian trappers!
I wouldn't recommend the film for vegans or vegetarians though, as it depicts an old traditional way of life - living off the land, hunting animals, and using the landscape to survive, make a living. It was emotional watching the old war veteran break down talking about the war too; nevermind the amazing dog who ran 150km non-stop in the snow to get home - pass me the tissues!
I loved the leisurely pace of the film. It never felt boring and was thoroughly interesting throughout. I can't help but think my own Grandfather, who was a hunter and bushman would've enjoyed seeing his Russian equivalents and their unique methods for overcoming challenges.
These people really put my own first world problems in perspective. Definitely recommend to those needing a slower pace of life, or who are stressed out or anxious. Probably my favourite Herzog film to date.
- maccas-56367
- Jan 20, 2019
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Storyline
Did you know
- TriviaSince the popularity of the TV mini-series, the village of Bakhta has become a tourist spot, with visitors arriving by river boat in the short summer months. Tarkovsky created a museum there that features artifacts and exhibits on the life and work of the trappers, fishermen, boat-builders, craftsmen, and villagers. The museum features a workshop to teach young people practical application on how to live off the land, and to pass down its traditions.
- Quotes
[first lines]
Himself - Narrator: This is the village of Bakhtia In Siberia. Although it looks like winter to us, it's already spring here. The village is located In the heart of Siberia, and we should keep in mind that this colossal landmass is one and a half times the size of the United States. The endless wilderness that surrounds this place is known as the taiga. No roads or train lines traverse it. There are only two ways to reach this outpost - one is by helicopter, the other by boat. The expanse in the foreground is not solid ground but the frozen-over Yenisey River, one of the largest waterways in Siberia. It's only during the few Ice-free months of summer that boats can also reach Bakhtia.
Himself - Narrator: Of the 300 or so inhabitants of this village, a handful of them make their livelihood as professional trappers. One of these men is Gennady Solovyev. Here he makes his way into the wilderness across an enormous frozen river. He wants to show us an essential tool of his profession.
Gennady Soloviev: [demonstrating] An animal would approach and begin twisting the bait. The pressure is very light, I'll keep my hand in it. Let me show you. See how light it is.
[the top collapses]
Gennady Soloviev: There you go. The animal is trapped. This is how I disarm the trap.
[lifting the top back up]
Gennady Soloviev: I take away the bait. I remove the wooden linchpin so squirrels or mice don't steal them. I put everything under the roof, and that's it.
- ConnectionsEdited from Happy People (2007)
- How long is Happy People: A Year in the Taiga?Powered by Alexa
Details
Box office
- Gross US & Canada
- $338,987
- Opening weekend US & Canada
- $10,481
- Jan 27, 2013
- Gross worldwide
- $338,987
- Runtime1 hour 30 minutes
- Color
- Aspect ratio
- 1.85 : 1