Documentary
Ring of Fire
Inspiration can often be found in the world around us, or as I discovered in the case of the following filmmakers, the space above us.
In a world where celestial events often captivate the imagination, a duo from Utah embarked on a spontaneous adventure to capture the magic of a solar eclipse, resulting in the captivating documentary, “Ring of Fire.”
The filmmakers, Sawyer Nunley and Heber Stanton, stumbled upon the idea while seeking to document the upcoming solar eclipse. What began as a quest for mesmerizing footage evolved into an unexpected storytelling experience as the day unfolded. In an our interview, Nunley shared that the initial plan was to create a behind-the-scenes vlog but quickly transformed into a more significant project.
The documentary captures the rare phenomenon where the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, casting a shadow on the planet for a fleeting moment. Sawyer Nunley recalled the awe-inspiring moment when he first saw the footage on the camera screen, realizing that their meticulous planning and time investment had paid off.
However, every filmmaking journey has its challenges, and “Ring of Fire” was no exception. Nunley highlighted two significant hurdles in the process. The first was finding the perfect location, a task made even more challenging by his commitments as a full-time student. Against the odds, serendipity intervened when his classes were unexpectedly canceled, allowing him to scout and discover the ideal spot in Moab just a day before the eclipse.
The second challenge came in the editing room, where Nunley faced a time crunch to release the documentary while the topic remained relevant. Editing the entire film in just two days, he pushed his skills to the limit to create a polished and timely piece.
Reflecting on the experience, Nunley expressed satisfaction with the final product, acknowledging only minor adjustments he would make in retrospect. He mentioned audio imperfections and minor edits, all of which have been addressed in the updated YouTube version.
“Ring of Fire” has already been released on YouTube, providing audiences with a front-row seat to the celestial spectacle. For those eager to stay connected with future projects, Nunley encourages subscribing to his YouTube channel and following his Instagram (@soynun).
“Ring of Fire” captures the beauty of a solar eclipse plus the spontaneity and creativity that can arise when passion and opportunity align. I love to learn more abut what drives filmmakers and the story behind the screen. Now it’s time for me to hit the road and discover the next story behind the lens. See you on set!