Watch The Hidden Life of Trees

The Hidden Life of Trees is a documentary film from 2020 that explores the complex and fascinating world of trees. Based on the best-selling book by German forester Peter Wohlleben, the film takes viewers on a journey through the forest, showcasing the incredible interconnectedness and intelligence of trees. Narrated by Wohlleben himself, the film begins by introducing viewers to the concept of the "wood-wide web," a vast underground network of fungal threads that connects trees in a complex web of communication and resource-sharing. This network allows trees to share water, nutrients, and even warning signals in the event of a threat, highlighting the remarkable intelligence of these seemingly stationary organisms.

Throughout the film, Wohlleben shares his deep knowledge of the forest, revealing surprising facts about the ways in which trees interact with their environment and with each other. From the chemical signals that trees use to communicate with one another, to the phenomenon of "crown shyness" (in which neighboring trees avoid overlapping their leaves), the film showcases the remarkable complexity of these ancient organisms.

One of the most striking aspects of The Hidden Life of Trees is the way in which it blends science and storytelling, using a combination of stunning cinematography and clear, accessible explanations to engage viewers. For example, the film features stunning time-lapse footage of trees growing and changing throughout the seasons, as well as animations that illustrate the complex processes happening beneath the surface.

In addition to Wohlleben, the film features interviews with other experts in the field, including Achim Bogdahn, a scientist who studies the chemical signals that trees use to communicate, and Markus Lanz, a television host who interviews Wohlleben about his groundbreaking research.

Throughout the movie, Wohlleben advocates for a more empathetic and holistic approach to forestry, one that recognizes the complex and interconnected nature of the forest ecosystem. He argues that if we treat trees and other organisms with respect and care, we may be able to mitigate some of the damage that has been done to our planet.

Ultimately, The Hidden Life of Trees is a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of one of the most fascinating and essential parts of our natural world. Whether you're a nature lover, a science enthusiast, or simply curious about the world around us, this film is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the remarkable intelligence and interconnectedness of trees.

The Hidden Life of Trees is a 2021 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0 and a MetaScore of 73.