The Reindeer Journals
2025 | Coast Film & Music Festival
Duration: 9 min
Synopisis
The Reindeer Journals, written and narrated by Riverhorse Nakadate.
Lapland is something else−just one of those heartbreakingly beautiful places. There is a philosophy there called Allemansratten which simply means, we have the right to roam, that everyone shall have access to nature and wilderness, rivers, and oceans. You can climb mountains, pick mushrooms, throw down a bedroll and a tent, swim in stunningly clear lakes, fish, navel gaze the true meaning of life, and ramble to your heart’s content, as long as you are respectful and loving to the earth and others. Amen to that. This film is an ode to friendship and simple living, running wild along rivers and in the Arctic Circle. And the fish, pike, salmon, grayling, and wild trout for miles. These days, the reindeer need our help to keep the earth steady at the helm, so there is plenty to do ahead. We all know that. Here’s to the surreal places waiting for us if we have the heart to go. See you out there.
Featured at Coast Film & Music Festival 2025 screening as part of the Our Lands Short Films Block on 11/04 at 5 PM at Laguna Beach Cultural Arts Center and 11/09 at 12 PM at the Forum Theater at Festival of Arts. Check the schedule + get tickets >>
Production Team
Tony Czech is a filmmaker, photographer, and lifelong adventurer. Born and raised in the remote northern woods of Minnesota, he cut his teeth paddling the Boundary Waters and has since pursued rivers, rugged coastlines, and remote mountains through the lens of his camera. From first descents to documentary filmmaking in rebel-held territory, Tony’s work is grounded in deep exploration and the powerful stories that emerge from it.
His films and photography reflect a life lived outside and have led to collaborations with brands such as Patagonia, Toyota, The North Face, and many others. Recent projects include A Northern Light for Patagonia and the surf film Aleutian Illusion, both of which premiered at the Coast Film Festival.
Tony is also a husband and proud father of two wild boys, and has spent the past year directing his first feature-length documentary, set to release in the coming year.