The Unexpected Truth About Cineglobe 2017's Best Documentary

The Cineglobe International Film Festival, held annually at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research) in Geneva, Switzerland, aims to bridge the gap between science and cinema. Each year, the festival showcases films that explore scientific themes, technological advancements, and the human impact of these endeavors. In 2017, the Audience Award for Best Documentary went to a film that continues to resonate and whose journey from relative obscurity to wider recognition holds several surprising twists.

Who: The documentary in question is "Almost Nothing: CERN, Autobiography of a Sign," directed by Anna de Manincor and produced by ZimmerFrei. This Italian-French co-production explores the complex and often paradoxical nature of scientific research through the lens of CERN's Large Hadron Collider (LHC).

What: "Almost Nothing" is not a traditional science documentary. It doesn't focus on explaining the Higgs boson or the mechanics of particle physics in a straightforward manner. Instead, it presents a more abstract and poetic reflection on the scientific process. The film blends interviews with CERN scientists and engineers with evocative visuals and soundscapes, creating an immersive experience that delves into the philosophical and existential questions that arise from humanity's pursuit of knowledge. The film explores themes of uncertainty, the limitations of human understanding, and the almost paradoxical nature of searching for "nothing" – the fundamental building blocks of the universe.

When: The film was released in 2016 and screened at Cineglobe in March 2017, winning the Audience Award. This recognition marked a significant turning point for the film, boosting its visibility and leading to further screenings at other international film festivals.

Where: Cineglobe, as mentioned, is hosted at CERN in Geneva, Switzerland. This unique setting provides a fitting backdrop for films exploring scientific themes. The festival itself aims to spark dialogue between scientists, filmmakers, and the general public. "Almost Nothing," with its focus on CERN's own research, was particularly well-suited to this environment.

Why: The film's victory at Cineglobe was surprising for several reasons. Firstly, the festival often features films with more explicit scientific content, making "Almost Nothing's" more abstract and philosophical approach an unexpected choice for the audience. Secondly, the film wasn't a heavily promoted or widely known title at the time. Its success was largely attributed to its unique artistic vision and its ability to resonate with audiences on an emotional and intellectual level. The film offered a counterpoint to the often-sterile portrayal of science, highlighting the human element of curiosity, doubt, and the pursuit of the unknown.

Historical Context: CERN itself has a rich history, dating back to its establishment in 1954. The organization was founded to foster scientific collaboration in post-war Europe. Over the decades, CERN has become a global hub for particle physics research, pushing the boundaries of human knowledge about the universe. The construction of the LHC, the world's largest and most powerful particle accelerator, was a monumental undertaking, representing a significant investment in scientific exploration. Films like "Almost Nothing" contribute to the broader cultural narrative surrounding CERN, exploring its impact beyond the scientific community.

Current Developments: While "Almost Nothing" isn't currently playing in mainstream cinemas, it continues to be screened at academic institutions, science museums, and specialized film festivals. The film has also been used as a teaching tool in courses on science communication and visual anthropology. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to spark conversations about the nature of scientific inquiry and its implications for society. The directors, Anna de Manincor and ZimmerFrei, have continued to produce thought-provoking and experimental films, further exploring the intersection of art, science, and technology.

Furthermore, the broader trend of documentaries exploring scientific themes continues to grow. Films like "Particle Fever" (2013), which documented the search for the Higgs boson at CERN, have achieved significant mainstream success, demonstrating the public's appetite for engaging with complex scientific topics.

Likely Next Steps: The legacy of "Almost Nothing" is likely to continue in several ways:

• Continued Screenings and Educational Use: The film will likely continue to be screened at specialized venues and used in educational settings as a case study for innovative science communication.


• Influence on Filmmakers: The film's unique artistic approach may inspire other filmmakers to explore scientific themes in more unconventional and experimental ways.


• Increased Focus on Humanizing Science: As public trust in science becomes increasingly important, films like "Almost Nothing" can play a crucial role in humanizing the scientific process and fostering a deeper understanding of its complexities.


• Digital Archiving and Accessibility: Efforts should be made to ensure the film's long-term preservation and accessibility through digital archiving and online streaming platforms. This would allow future generations to engage with its unique perspective on scientific research.

In conclusion, "Almost Nothing: CERN, Autobiography of a Sign" is more than just an award-winning documentary. It's a testament to the power of art to explore complex scientific ideas in a meaningful and accessible way. Its unexpected success at Cineglobe 2017 highlights the importance of supporting films that challenge conventional narratives and encourage critical thinking about the role of science in society. The film’s continued resonance underscores the enduring human fascination with the pursuit of knowledge and the fundamental questions about our place in the universe.