Zed
Human Stories 52'

Facing the Giants Bees

In the northwest of Nepal, men scale the vertiginous rock faces of the Himalayas to gather the honey of wild bees. These expert climbers risk their lives every spring at an altitude of more than 3,000 metres where they face the giant Apis Laboriosa bees, the biggest species on the planet.

This year, Moti, a young boy, will be part of the expedition and will climb the cliffs for the first time. He’d like to become a honey hunter like his father.

Gathering the honey involves an extremely dangerous high-wire act. Hanging from a ladder made of woven bamboo and with nothing to steady him, Moti climbs up the cliff. Without any protection, he approaches the swarm which can be more than a meter high.

Moti seems full of confidence, but he must exhibit both patience and endurance to become a true honey hunter. His enthusiasm is a good sign for the continuation of this disappearing activity. But will he be able to step into his father’s shoes?

Direction: Jérôme Ségur

Production: ZED for France Télévisions

Languages: French, English

awards & festivals

  • Japan Wildlife Film Festival

    Nature & People Award

  • International Mountain Film Festival of Autrans (France)

    Official Selection

  • Film Festival of Graz (Austria)

    Camera Alpin in Gold Prize

  • International Film Festival of Toulon (France)

    The Prize of "Un Regard sur le Monde"

  • Diablerets Film Festival (Switzerland)

    Grand Prize / Public Award

  • Etonnants Voyageurs Film Festival of Saint Malo (France)

    Official Selection

see also