This virtual reality film lets you explore the Amazon rainforest as if you’re there

Trust us, virtual reality is going to be a buzzphrase you’ll hear a lot this year. We are hosting the first ever virtual reality art exhibition in Malaysia this month. Now thanks to this sophisticated VR technology and clever film-making, you get to explore the vast landscape of the Amazonia. 

Under the Canopy is a 10-minute long video project by non-profit group Conservation International with award-winning production team Jaunt that gives viewers a beautiful virtual tour and an entertaining experience of the Amazon rainforest narrated by actor Lee Pace. 

 

Set off on your journey as you descend down a 200-feet Ceiba tree with a native named Kamanja Panashekung, whose family has lived in the region for generations. As you paddle down a river, you’ll be greeted by a three-toed sloths and a 15-feet anaconda, and you get to discover the intimate relationship between people and nature. Learn as Kamanja show you how the forest supplies food and how his community draw on their collective knowledge in protecting its trees, waters and wildlife.

 

While the sights are amazing, there’s a deep issue that lies here concerning deforestation and its devastating impact that reaches beyond Amazonia and its 30 million inhabitants. The Amazon plays an important role in guarding the earth from the impacts of climate change where it absorbs 40 percent of the carbon stocks of forests globally. It provides 20 percent of the world’s breathable oxygen and holds 20 percent of the world’s fresh water. The Amazon is also home to more species of plants and animals than anywhere else on the planet. Plus, a number of indigenous people, each with a rich history and culture, have made this their dwelling for years.

 

Under the Canopy is best watched through a VR headset but that doesn’t mean you can’t view it on any other screen. As the story pans out, you can click around the screen to “explore” the horizon. Hit the button and enjoy the experience below.

 

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