Watch Microtopia

Microtopia is a thought-provoking documentary film from 2013 that explores the rapidly growing trend towards tiny houses and other compact living arrangements. Directed by Jesper Wachtmeister, the film introduces us to a diverse cast of individuals who have chosen to downsize their homes and lifestyles in order to live more sustainably, reduce their carbon footprint, and increase their freedom.

At the heart of the film are John Wells and Jay Shafer, two tiny house pioneers who are leading the charge in this emerging movement. Wells is an artist who lives in the middle of the Texan desert, in a house he built entirely by hand using recycled materials. Shafer is the founder of Tumbleweed Tiny House Company, and has been designing and building small homes for over a decade.

Through interviews and footage of their homes and communities, Microtopia takes us on a journey through the tiny house movement, exploring the various reasons why people are choosing to downsize and the challenges they face in doing so. In addition to Wells and Shafer, we meet a wide range of individuals who are living tiny, from retirees to young families, all of whom share a passion for sustainable living and a desire to simplify their lives.

One of the key themes of the film is the idea of sustainability, and how the tiny house movement can help to reduce our impact on the environment. By living in smaller homes, with fewer possessions and a greater focus on self-sufficiency, these individuals are able to minimize their carbon footprint and live in a more eco-friendly way. We see how Wells has installed solar panels and a rainwater collection system in his home, while Shafer’s designs often incorporate composting toilets and other sustainable features.

Another theme that emerges is the sense of community that develops among tiny house dwellers. Many of them live in intentional communities, where they can share resources, help each other out, and create a sense of belonging. We see how these communities are often supportive and close-knit, and how they provide a valuable sense of connection in an increasingly isolated world.

Despite the many benefits of living tiny, however, the film also acknowledges the challenges and drawbacks of this lifestyle. We hear from individuals who struggle with zoning laws and building codes that limit the size and location of their homes, as well as those who miss the space and privacy of a larger home. Additionally, we see how the financial impact of the tiny house movement can be significant, with many individuals investing tens of thousands of dollars into designing and building their homes.

Throughout the film, the production values are high, with stunning shots of the natural landscapes that the tiny house dwellers have chosen to inhabit. We see the beauty of the desert, the coast, and the forest, and how these environments shape the homes and lives of the people who live there. The film also features a moving and atmospheric soundtrack, with original music by composer Lasse Martinsson.

Overall, Microtopia is a fascinating and insightful look into the world of tiny houses and sustainable living. With its blend of interviews, footage, and beautiful cinematography, the film offers a compelling argument for why this movement is on the rise, and why we should all be paying attention to the ways in which we can reduce our impact on the environment. Whether you’re a fan of tiny homes or simply interested in living more sustainably, this film is definitely worth checking out.

Microtopia is a 2013 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.