Overview

• Nik Payne completed the documentary to honor his late wife Maria’s dream of capturing their off-grid lifestyle and family’s journey through grief.
• The film documents the Paynes’ self-sufficient life in Norway’s wilderness, Maria’s death from cancer in 2019, and the family’s subsequent struggles.
• Following its Sundance grand jury prize win, the film has resonated with audiences, prompting discussions about loss and healing.
• Financial challenges forced the family to sell their farm, enroll the children in mainstream schools, and adapt to new realities.
• Nik Payne is considering homeschooling his younger children again while continuing to navigate life as a single parent.