Forms of Circulation #1: Exploring the Interconnectedness of Life

In a world increasingly shaped by human intervention, films like Forms of Circulation #1 remind us of our place in the natural order. Directed by Paul Stewart and Sarah Perks, this 13-minute, dialogue-free film is a meditative exploration of the impact of bioscience on humans and non-humans alike. Set in the serene yet industrial Seal Sands, the film focuses on the pinniped population—seals whose lives reflect the delicate balance between nature and human interference. For me, Forms of Circulation #1 felt like a visual and emotional journey, one that asked me to reconsider how we coexist with the natural world.

A Silent Story of Connection

What makes Forms of Circulation #1 so unique is its lack of dialogue. Instead of words, the film relies on evocative imagery and soundscapes to tell its story. The seals at Seal Sands take center stage, their presence a reminder of the resilience of nature even in the face of industrialization.

Watching these seals, I felt both awe and sadness. They seemed so at peace in their environment, yet the industrial backdrop served as a stark reminder of humanity’s impact. This juxtaposition between the natural and the man-made is a central theme of the film, one that resonates deeply in our current ecological moment.

This approach reminded me of Non/Living, another film that used non-human life forms to explore larger themes. Both films invite viewers to step back and observe the world through a different lens, one that prioritizes connection over dominance.

The Setting: Seal Sands

Seal Sands, located on the northeastern coast of England, is an area of ecological and industrial significance. While it serves as a habitat for seals and other wildlife, it is also home to chemical plants and oil refineries. This contrast makes it a fascinating setting for a film that explores the intersection of bioscience and natural life.

The filmmakers use this location to great effect, capturing its duality with stunning cinematography. Shots of seals lounging on the shore are interspersed with images of industrial machinery, creating a visual dialogue between the two worlds.

For those unfamiliar with Seal Sands, this Wikipedia article on Seal Sands provides a helpful introduction to its history and significance.

Themes of Bioscience and Interdependence

At its core, Forms of Circulation #1 is a reflection on interdependence. The seals are not just passive subjects—they are active participants in the ecosystem, affected by and affecting their surroundings. The film subtly raises questions about how scientific advancements influence these relationships, often in ways we fail to fully understand.

This theme also brought to mind Hexham Heads, where unearthed artifacts challenged viewers to think about humanity’s historical footprint. Similarly, Forms of Circulation #1 asks us to consider the mark we leave on the natural world, not just in the past but in the present and future.

A Visual and Auditory Experience

The lack of dialogue in Forms of Circulation #1 places a greater emphasis on visuals and sound. The filmmakers use long, meditative shots that allow viewers to fully immerse themselves in the environment. The sound design, which includes the gentle lapping of waves and the distant hum of machinery, adds to the film’s reflective tone.

For me, this sensory experience was one of the most powerful aspects of the film. It felt like an invitation to slow down, to observe, and to reflect—a stark contrast to the fast-paced, noise-filled world we live in.

The Role of Seals as Narrators

In a way, the seals act as narrators of the film. Their movements, interactions, and mere presence tell a story of resilience and adaptability. They remind us that life persists, even in the face of adversity.

This reminded me of A Stream of Echoes, where personal archives were used to tell a larger story of displacement and memory. Both films use seemingly small, quiet moments to reveal profound truths about the world and our place in it.

Why Forms of Circulation #1 Is a Must-Watch

For me, Forms of Circulation #1 was more than a film—it was a call to action. It reminded me of the importance of observing and understanding the natural world, not just as a resource to be exploited but as a partner in our shared existence. Its meditative tone and stunning visuals create a narrative that is both thought-provoking and deeply moving.

If you appreciated the reflective storytelling of Non/Living or the exploration of humanity’s impact in Hexham Heads, Forms of Circulation #1 will resonate with you. It’s a film that speaks volumes without saying a word.