High Plains FilmsA project of Big Sky Pictures, LLC
THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD introduces viewers to a diverse group of scientists, nature lovers, gardeners, farmers, and general bug enthusiasts in exploring the importance of flying insects amid rapid declines in their numbers. This most numerous group of animals on the planet by far — three quarters of all species — have also been called the “glue of life” on Earth. They literally hold ecosystems together.
Insects were the first animals to evolve flight more than 400 million years ago, and they survived all five of the known mass extinctions since then. But there is evidence that the pace of decline among insects in parts of the world today is fast approaching the levels of previous catastrophes.
What this means for the rest of life on Earth, including humans, is the focus of THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD. The film documents the mysteries of the declines alongside creative and heroic human efforts to change the course of evolutionary history. What is causing this extinction crisis? What can be done to reverse the trend? THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD attempts to find answers to those questions and more.
“The film makes a patient and visually rich case for the importance of insects through macro photography and careful explanation of pollinators' keystone role in the environment and the issues facing them, and by extension, human civilization.”
Missoulian
“Films like this — that suggest humans are on the brink of destroying life on earth — aren’t easy to stomach. THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD leads with wonder rather than lecture. The film is visually stunning, with macro photography that makes flowers — in all their pinks, greens, and oranges — pop. And the insects! They are so in focus you can see their little hairs and the textured details of their sheer wings and alien eyes. It’s exquisite. The story is colorful, too, told through multiple voices — gardeners, farmers, nature enthusiasts and scientists who are real characters. And in total, they create a holistic view of the insect world — one that’s both scientifically rigorous and genuinely moving.”
Erika Fredrickson · The Pulp
“This year, we are incredibly excited to honor a film that championed a crucial environmental theme with artistic mastery, transforming what could be a purely academic subject into an accessible and deeply engaging cinematic experience. More importantly, it leaves us with a sense of wonder and a gentle, optimistic call to action, inspiring us to appreciate and protect the delicate balance of our natural world. It’s a mesmerizing exploration of the vital yet often overlooked role of insects in our global ecosystem. It is both scientifically rigorous and visually stunning, taking us on a journey into the intricate world of these tiny creatures, and reminding us how fundamental they are to life as we know it.”
Lighthouse International Film Festival Jury
“THE LITTLE THINGS THAT RUN THE WORLD is a visual treat! You'll come for the incredible insect photography and stay for the important lessons on land use, habitat disruption, native plants, and avoiding monocultures. A visually entrancing film that reminds us of the perils of ignoring the needs of our invertebrate neighbors.”
Chris Stelzig, Executive Director, Entomological Society of America