The Fire Poppy

2025 | Coast Film & Music Festival

Duration: 11 min

Synopisis

THE FIRE POPPY is a portrait of MYSTERY RANCH ambassador, Sasha Berleman. This short film explores her enduring relationship with fire and delves into her evolving perspective, from seeing fire as a threat to developing a deep interest in it, and eventually recognizing it as a valuable tool. As a steward of the land, Sasha has gained valuable insights into how fire can be harnessed to promote land health, and she has come to understand its importance for certain plants like the Fire Poppy, which depend on it for growth.

Featured at Coast Film & Music Festival 2025

Production Team

Sashwa Burrous has always been intimately connected to the natural world, born in a community amongst the California redwoods. As a lifelong surfer & waterman, he has a special gift for capturing the world below. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Motion Graphic Design, and has worked in both studio settings and in challenging environments. He is a certified Wildland Firefighter (FFT2), and has harnessed a deep relationship with fire. Sashwa has worked for clients like National Geographic, New York Times and Patagonia.