Watch Life Off Grid

Life Off Grid is a documentary film released in 2016 that explores the lives of several individuals and families who have chosen to live off the grid in various parts of Canada. Directed by Jonathan Taggart and produced by Leah Mallen, the film delves into the reasons why people decide to disconnect from the mainstream way of living and the challenges and rewards associated with this lifestyle.

The film begins with the story of David and Colleen who live in an off-grid cabin in northern Ontario. They left their corporate jobs behind and moved to their remote cabin with no running water, electricity or internet access. They rely on solar panels for electricity and a hand-cranked generator for further requirements. Similarly, Nick lives in another off-grid cabin, but his is located in the forests of British Columbia. He talks about his passion for grid-independent living and describes how he has learned to live off the land for sustenance.

The film also focuses on young couple Frank and Alissa who live in a small, self-sufficient cabin in British Columbia. Frank is a musician and Alissa is an artist, and they rely on solar power and rainwater collection systems to power their home. They also grow their fruits and vegetables, and all their waste is composted.

Through conversations with various individuals and families, the film explores the emotional and philosophical underpinnings of off-grid living. For some of the subjects, the decision to live off-grid was based on environmental concerns, while for others it was a result of a longing for solitude and freedom from societal norms. Some others sought to challenge themselves and learn to live a self-sufficient lifestyle.

The film also highlights the challenges associated with off-grid living. These include the difficulty of sourcing resources in remote areas and the need to adapt to changing weather conditions. The subjects talked about how they have learned to live frugally and to be more conscious of their consumption habits. Many of them stressed that off-grid living is not for everyone and requires a lot of hard work and dedication.

The cinematography of Life Off Grid is stunning, with sweeping views of the natural landscapes surrounding the off-grid cabins. The film also features a beautiful and compelling original soundtrack created by the composer Michael Milech.

The film ends with the subjects reflecting on what they have gained from their off-grid lifestyle. All of them talked about a deep sense of connection to nature and an appreciation for the simple things in life. They also discussed how off-grid living has changed their worldview and made them more conscious of their impact on the planet.

Overall, Life Off Grid is a beautiful and thought-provoking film that tells the stories of individuals who have chosen to live life on their own terms. It is a captivating exploration of a lifestyle that challenges mainstream culture's obsession with consumption and brings to light the joys and struggles of off-grid living.

Life Off Grid is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 25 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.