Only on Earth

The rolling hills of Galicia, dotted with herds of wild horses and bleating sheep, paint an idyllic picture—at least until wildfires rage over the region during an exceptionally hot summer. Firefighters, veterinarians, and shepherds tend to the blaze and its aftermath, struggling to keep pace with the brisk descent into destruction. With a patient and immersive gaze, the camera weaves through the lives of these dedicated people as they grapple with their rapidly changing world. Cinematographer Maria Grazia Goya’s images are ravishing in Robin Petré’s unhurried, observational documentary that captures a single season in this autonomous corner of Spain. Filled with empathy, Only on Earth measures the cost of Earth’s changing climate through the experiences of those facing its enormous impact as they fight to preserve their home. —Bedatri Choudhury