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Deserter

1991 19 min
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In this short fiction film, the observation satellite Zenon has, on its own, left its assigned orbit and is refusing to send back vital data concerning the Earth's water reserves. Those in charge of the Research Center that sent the satellite up are threatening to destroy this free and intelligent "spirit" if Estelle, the scientist controlling it, cannot make her "friend" see reason.

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Deserter

Details

In this short fiction film, the observation satellite Zenon has, on its own, left its assigned orbit and is refusing to send back vital data concerning the Earth's water reserves. Those in charge of the Research Center that sent the satellite up are threatening to destroy this free and intelligent "spirit" if Estelle, the scientist controlling it, cannot make her "friend" see reason.

  • director
    Michel Murray
  • script
    Michel Murray
  • producer
    Jean-François Mercier
  • cinematography
    André-Luc Dupont
  • sound
    Yves Gendron
  • editing
    Pierre Lemelin
  • sound editing
    Marie-Claude Salvaille
  • computer animation
    Georges Mauro
  • re-recording
    Adrian Croll
  • voice
    Adrian Knight
  • music
    Jocelyn Therrien
  • cast
    Marie-Josée Gauthier
    Widemir Normil
    Khanh Hua
    Norman Helms

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Education

Ages 10 to 15
Study Guide
School subjects

A short science fiction film useful for introducing students to topics related to climate change, sustainability, and ecology. Why is Zenon considered a “deserter” and what does that mean? Who else in the film could be considered a “deserter”? In what way is Zenon a metaphor for the Earth? Research desertification; what are some contemporary solutions that have been proposed? How do those solutions compare to ideas explored in the film? Pretend you are Zenon and write a report on a local issue related to sustainability, climate, environment, or water.

Deserter
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