Artist Returns Millions of Fish Scales to Sea

Victor Kossakovsky's latest film, 'Trillion,' focuses on a solitary artist, identified as K49814, engaged in a profound ecological undertaking. Set against the stark beauty of a Norwegian peninsula, the documentary portrays the artist systematically returning vast quantities of fish scales to the sea. This repetitive, seemingly Sisyphean task serves as a powerful metaphor for humanity's relationship with natural resources.

The film, shot in striking monochrome, eschews direct narration, relying instead on evocative imagery and sound design to convey its message. The artist's mission, the title of which refers to the annual number of fish harvested, underscores the immense scale of human consumption. Joaquin Phoenix's executive producer credit further highlights the project's thematic resonance with animal welfare and environmental concerns.

'Trillion' challenges viewers by demanding contemplation on the disparity between the ease with which resources are extracted and the immense, often neglected, effort required for their replenishment. The film’s austerity and deliberate pacing invite reflection on the laborious nature of ecological restoration and humanity's responsibility toward the planet.