SHADOWLAND DOCUMENTARY FILM
Leave your troubled past behind and get a fresh start in the hidden enclave nestled in the French Pyrenees, where magic and witchcraft are woven into daily life. This remote region attracts a motley crew of people – including priestess Anaiya, sorcerer Uranie and chaos magician Iranon – who eschew modernity and try to transform from their former troubled personae, embracing the local occult-tinged faith.
Former Hollywood filmmaker Richard Stanley finds himself in the region, too, after losing everything in the film industry, self-manifesting as a spiritual leader in the community.
When shocking allegations of Stanley’s past domestic abuse are brought into light, his local admirers must confront the true nature of their beloved chosen home. Is the region truly transformative or have they been ruthlessly manipulated by a false prophet?
REVIEWS:
“It’s a complex, layered documentary that defies easy categorization — a meditation on spirituality, a character study of a fallen idol, and a sobering look at the insidious nature of abuse. A masterclass in documentary-making and crucial cautionary tale.”
Morbidly Beautiful – Stephanie Malone
“A story of magic, escape and fantasy, abruptly dragged back to reality.”
Scared Sheepless – Caitlyn Downs
“Shadowland transitioned from further exploration of this mystical region of Montségur into a mediation on false prophets and the impact it leaves on the community around them.”
“Shadowland allows the web to untangle itself and the reality to fully differentiate itself from the fantasy, while still being respectful to those whose lives have been upended by these “spiritual narcissists.”
Beyond The Cinerama Dome – Tina Kakadelis
“A rich and powerful documentary that stands proudly alongside films like Heart of Darkness and Burden of Dreams as an ethereal and revelatory introspection on life, faith, filmmaking, and abuse that becomes a part of us and never lets go.”
PRESS:
VARIETY: How ‘Shadowland’ Filmmakers Pivoted to Address Allegations Leveled at Horrormeister Richard Stanley
HELSINGIN SANOMAT: Matka pimeyden sydämeen
