Wander X Our Lives

Wander Films, a bold and disruptive content agency was commissioned to make its mark in high-end TV production. Known for being a disruptive emerging player in the industry, Wander had built a reputation for visually striking storytelling, securing a major commission. Breaking into the BBC’s prestigious Our Lives series required a compelling story and also the ability to execute a high-stakes production that could stand alongside the best in British documentary filmmaking.

Wander pitched BBC One a visually immersive, emotionally compelling documentary, capturing an extraordinary human story while showcasing the natural beauty of the Lake District.

THE IDEA.

The Lakes: Our Life on the Edge, is a gripping and visually stunning documentary following free solo climbers Anna and Mat as they embarked on a 100-mile climbing expedition across the Lake District. Unlike traditional climbing films, this wasn’t just about the sport it was about trust, resilience and the life-altering decisions faced by those who push the limits of human endurance.

Wander approached the project with a cinematic storytelling mindset, using:

• High-resolution drones to capture the Lake District’s breathtaking landscapes.

• 360° cameras to create an immersive climbing experience.

• Close-up handheld cinematography to bring the audience into the raw emotions of the climbers’ journey.

• User Generated Content video diarying ASMR-inspired sound design to enhance the physical intensity of free solo climbing.

• It was about making the audience feel the heights, the fear, the adrenaline and the freedom of climbing without safety gear.

RESULTS.

• Premiered on BBC One’s Our Lives series, earning critical acclaim.
• Four-star review from TV Times.
• Pick of the Week in The Radio Times, Sunday Times, The Telegraph, The Observer, The People, and What’s On TV.
• Shortlisted for a Royal Television Society (RTS) Award.
• The documentary reinforced Wander Films’ position as a fresh, ambitious voice in high-end TV production and proved the team’s ability to deliver broadcast-quality storytelling.

Selected as one of four North East production companies to receive funding from the £1.5m BBC Small Indie Fund
Supported by North East Screen’s REACH programme for business growth helped challenge the lack of representation in TV, where only 8% of professionals come from working-class backgrounds.