AnimaMundiMovie.com

This is an unbelievably enlightening, refreshing and inspiring look at our immediate world from a Gaian viewpoint. The crises and challenges of our time are seen from the perspective of a living planet, then woven with compellingly clear explanations and insights from a broad, global palette of writers, thinkers and activists who show us that Mother Earth is indeed a living thing and that she will respond when treated as such. When epochal changes occur they need to be examined from a multitude of viewpoints. Peter Charles Downey has given us an indispensable and beautifully crafted work of art that is an essential facet in the shining gemstone of a new human consciousness. For all my years of work in the field I heard, saw and understood issues in ways that were new, fresh and integrating. David Holmgren — as are all those interviewed — is a giant of an emerging consciousness — a prototype of the emerging new species I call Post-Petroleum Human. Anima Mundi lovingly and eloquently does a superb job of presenting our world — and our place in it — in a way that is calming, reassuring, while at the same time allowing us to comprehend and absorb the insanity of the world view held by humankind for thousands of years.

For all the films I have appeared in, Anima Mundi leaves me with a deep personal sense of satisfaction. What the film gave me for the first time was a very clear understanding of where I and my life’s work fit into this emerging consciousness. Finally, I see that I am and have been a warrior for Gaia all along; one of many. Watching this film was a deeply personal and uplifting experience. It is a Must See for all who would help to lead us into a New Paradigm because it so clearly and lovingly shows us the direction we need to go if we are to survive and endure.

Michael C. Ruppert,
Author, Lecturer

 

It’s brilliant, everyone must see this movie.

Guerrilla Gardening Geelong

 

This film gives a surprisingly enlightened and inspirational view of the world from a Gaian perspective. You do not need to be a follower of Gaia theory to appreciate the way the film presents the challenges our planet faces from the viewpoint of the planet as a living entity. The cast of scientists, activists and thinkers who speak here come from a variety of backgrounds and ideologies, but all agree that Earth is a living thing and like all living things, will respond to being treated with the care and sensitivity you’d offer another human being.

As well as being interesting and informative, the film is gorgeous to look at, reminding us of how precious the natural environment is. Humanity’s view of the world and its place in it is shown here to be insane, and the film urges mankind to evolve as the natural resources dwindle. It’s not an alarmist film, but offers helpful suggestions as to what direction we must move if we are to survive as a species.

Paramount Cinemas New Zealand

 

Anima Mundi Gaia may not be your goddess, but Australian filmmaker Peter Charles Downey pulls together the nexus of energy, economics, climate change, population and ecology in a way that will give pause for thought. Drawing on interviewees who are clearly passionate but who deliver in calm, non-proselytizing tones, he adds his own touch with telling archival montage and lively graphics.

New Zealand Listener

 

In examining the world from a Gaian perspective, Anima Mundi (“the soul of the world”) risks being seen only by the converted, but with oil spills in the news, its timing may win it a few more. This Australian documentary takes time to settle into, with talking heads firing information and a seeming hotchpotch of imagery, and it may need more than one viewing to make its points stick. Nevertheless, it pulls together energy, economics, climate, population and ecology in a way that does start to make sense. Importantly, it goes on to suggest feasible ways of redressing the problems. Even the imagery turns out not to be as random as it first seems.

The bias in the choice of interviewees – they include Noam Chomsky and various spokespeople for environmental causes – is deliberate, because, as one says, “Gaia’s a dirty word in science.” There’s probably too much emphasis on the US as villain in the archival footage – clearly it’s not alone – but overall the tone is calm, not emotive; explanatory, not proselytising. And the soundtrack’s good.

At the end, a speaker acknowledges that getting across this point of view is a big ask, but “if you make a good enough film, who knows?” Indeed. Anima Mundi may not sweep the world as a piece of cinema, but it’s another brick in the wall of awareness.

Helene Wong – New Zealand Listener

Anima Mundi is an independently produced, homegrown, grassroots documentary made with very low embodied fossil-fuel energy, but with lots of love and synchronicity. This is the first feature documentary by film-maker Peter Charles Downey, born October 30 1970, who only began making films in 2007 with a background as an artist, musician and activist. Funds raised from the sale of Anima Mundi are going towards future United Natures documentary film projects.

The Four Portraits with the director of Anima Mundi, Peter Charles Downey (2nd from left). Photograph by Jon Maree.

 

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CAST

David Holmgren is the co-originator of Permaculture and
author of Permaculture Principles & Pathways
Beyond Sustainability and Future Scenarios.
www.holmgren.com.au

John Seed OAM teaches deep ecology and is the
co-author of Thinking Like a Mountain.
www.johnseed.net

Dr Stephan Harding is an ecologist specializing in the
Gaia theory and is the author of Animate Earth.
www.schumachercollege.org.uk

Dr Vandana Shiva is a human rights activist, philosopher and environmentalist.
www.vandanashiva.org

Noam Chomsky is an author, political activist, linguist and philosopher at MIT.
www.chomsky.info

Michael C Ruppert is a peak oil activist and the author of Confronting Collapse and is featured in the film Collapse.
www.collapsenet.com

Michael Reynolds is an eco-architect featured in the film Garbage Warrior. He is the creator of the earthship concept which are self-sufficient off-the-grid sustainable houses mostly built from recycled material.
www.earthship.com

Dr Christine James is a transpersonal psychotherapist and author of The Cannibalization of Jesus and the Persecution of the Jews.
www.transpersonaljourneys.com

Dr Mark O’Meadhra is a medical doctor studying integrative medicine and Anthroposophy.
www.melbournetherapy.org.au

Dan Palmer and Adam Grubb are permaculture teachers and
founders of Permablitz and Very Edible Gardens.
www.permablitz.net

 

Directed, Produced and Edited by
Peter Charles Downey

Camera, Photography
and Audio by
Peter Charles Downey

Cast
David Holmgren
Dr Stephan Harding
John Seed
Michael C Ruppert
Dr Vandana Shiva
Noam Chomsky
Michael Reynolds
Dr Christine James
Dr Mark O’Meadhra
Dan Palmer
Adam Grubb

Research and Interviews*
Peter Charles Downey

* Stephan Harding interview by
Per Espen Stoknes (C)
Camera/Sound: Ulf Myrvold
Editer: Jon Robert Dohmen
www.wildethics.org

*Vandana Shiva interview by
Ruth Rosenhek (C)
Camera/Sound: Neil Pike
www.rainforestinfo.org

*Michael Ruppert interview by
Chelsea Green Publishing
and Mad River Media (C)
www.chelseagreen.com
www.madrivermedia.com

*Noam Chomsky footage
Karen Rybold-Chin (C)
Camera/Sound: Karen Rybold-Chin
www.ontheearthproductions.com

Other sources

Earthship photo’s
(C) Kevan Trott
Earth Builds Europe
www.earthbuilds.org
(C) Jay and Annie Warmke
Blue Rock Station
www.bluerockstation.com

Arne Naess photo
(C) Hilde H. Holsten

James Lovelock photo
(c) Bruno Cromby
EFN – Environmentalists For Nuclear
www.ecolo.org

Barak Obama speach
The White House

Sarah Palin video
US Government

Christopher Monckton photo
(c) Joanne Nova
www.joannenova.com.au

Gaia fresco
Wikicommons (Public Domain)
The Yorke Project

Deep Water Horizon oil leak photo’s/video
NASA, US Coast Guard

Earthrise from Moon, Stars,Galaxies
NASA

Sculptures by
Bruno Torf

Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden
Marysville Victoria Australia
www.brunosart.com

Music by

The Jed Rowe Band
www.jedrowe.com

Life
Composed by Jed Rowe
Copyright 2006

In the Morning
Composed by Jed Rowe
Copyright 2009

Still Point
Composed by Jed Rowe
Copyright 2009

Trick of the Light
Composed by Jed Rowe
Copyright 2009

Dr Thomas Fitzgerald
www.wingsofmusic.net

The Spirit album
Copyright 1997 Thomas Fitzgerald

Peter Charles Downey
www.myspace.com/echeloncorp

The Inner Workings
Composed by Peter Charles Downey
Copyright 2010

Anima Mundi
Composed by Peter Charles Downey
Copyright 2010

Soma Holiday
Composed by Peter Charles Downey
Copyright 2010

Shimmer
Composed by Peter Charles Downey
Copyright 2010

Time -Honored
Composed by Peter Charles Downey
Copyright 2010

Caravan
Composed by Peter Charles Downey
Copyright 2010

Michelle Morgan
www.riverofsong.com.au

The Permie Song
Composed by Michelle Morgan
Copyright 2010

Little Yarra Ensemble
Little Yarra Steiner School
www.lyss.gov.edu.au

Awakening

Composed by Tim Blake
Copyright 2009

Public Domain Archival Films
Unreserved Rights
www.archive.org

Man and His Culture 1954
Heavenly Bodies 1920
More Power to You 1930
Our Mr Sun 1956
Look to the Land 1953
Duck and Cover 1951
The Hare and the Tortois 1947
To Market To Market 1942
Man in the Twentieth Century 1950
Your Chance to Live 1972
Queerosities: Tree Toppers 1925
Queerosities: The Human Spider 1925
Pollution Below 1975
Bacteria Friend and Foe 1955
Divide and Conquer 1943
Using the Dollar 1947
Inside Story of Gasoline 1946
Your Name Here 1960
The Time of Apollo NASA 1975
Classic Commercials 1950/60/70
Machine Master or Slave 1941
Test Tube Tale 1941
Hair Dress Through the Ages 1950
Climate Factor 1984
Eskimos 1950
Easter Island 1950
Fish from Hell 1945
The Iceless Arctic 1940
Hemp for Victory 1942
In the Suburbs 1957
King Cotton 1945
Millions of Us 1933
News Magazine 1952
What Makes Us Tick 1952
Hawaii’s Volcanic Eruptions 1960
24 Hours in Progress 1950
Wheels Across Africa 1936
Man on the Land 1951
Animals in the Service of Man 1947
What is Money 1947
Unisphere 1964
Zeppelin 1933
Navy’s Satellite 1958
Fueling America USDA 2008
Challenge of our Future USERDA 1980
DOD Transporting 1940
Tacoma Bridge Collapse 1940
Dew Line Story 1959
Make Mine Freedom 1948
Ancient Rome in Africa 1927
Billie the Buffalo 1956
Out of the Dark 1954
White Magic 1940
American Harvest 1955
Wonderful World 1950
Destination Earth 1956
Watch Your Meters 1947
Victory Gardens 1942

Acknowledgments

Bruno’s Art and Sculpture Garden, Per Espen Stoknes, Ruth Rosenhek,
Karen Rybold-Chin, On the Earth Productions, Chelsea Green Publishing,
Mad River Media, Jay & Annie Warmke, Blue Rock Station, Kevan Trott,
Earth Builds Europe, Permablitz, Sheh-Mae Ho, Melliodora, Petty’s Orchard, Yarra Valley WiFi, Yarra Valley ECOSS, Judd Zekas, Damian & Tanya, Warburton township, Little Yarra Steiner School, Alan Seppings, Wild Thyme Cafe, Kate Bamford, WOCT, Dr Ralph Ballard.

Special Thanks to

Ms.Willa, David Holmgren, Bruno Torf and Gaia.

Anima Mundi documentary movie
Copyright 2011 Peter Charles Downey
and United Natures Independent Media
All Rights Reserved

SNAIL MAIL

United Natures Independent Media (R)
Post Box 209 Warburton Victoria Australia 3799

 

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More Background on AnimaMundiMovie.com

AnimaMundiMovie.com is the digital home for the acclaimed independent documentary “Anima Mundi,” directed by Peter Charles Downey. Originally launched in 2011 to support the film, the site has since evolved into an essential educational resource, particularly as recommended reading for “Sustainable World,” a university course managed by Dr. Denise Maiu. This article introduces readers to the origins, content, influence, and enduring relevance of both the documentary and its online platform, spanning ownership, historical context, critical reception, contributors, cultural resonance, and educational value.

Ownership and Management

Creative and Production Leadership

Anima Mundi is an entirely independent production, written, directed, and produced by Peter Charles Downey. Downey began his journey in film-making in 2007, with a background as an artist, musician, and activist. Operating with minimal resources, no industry ties, and a strong do-it-yourself ethos, Downey’s efforts culminated in a documentary that exemplifies the principles it promotes—using limited resources, relying on local ties, and prioritizing sustainability.

Website and Academic Stewardship

Today, AnimaMundiMovie.com is curated and managed as an archive for educational purposes by Dr. Denise Maiu. Dr. Maiu is a prominent figure in digital marketing, notably for her work on sports-related viral campaigns, and plays active roles in university golf initiatives. Her stewardship underscores the site’s relevance as an academic and ecological resource, and her influence ensures it remains current, accessible, and vital for students and independent learners.

Origins, Location, and Production Details

Anima Mundi and its online presence are rooted in Australia, with a listed base of operations near Melbourne, in Warburton, Victoria. The film and website are the products of United Natures Independent Media, further emphasizing the project’s grassroots Australian identity.

Film Production

• Release Date: 2011

• Formats: 78-minute full-length film, and a 56-minute television edit

• Technical Details: Full High Definition

• Production Company: United Natures Independent Media

• Contact: United Natures Independent Media, Warburton, Victoria, Australia

Downey’s approach mirrored the documentary’s subject—sustainable, resourceful, and deeply rooted in local communities. Production was notably low-budget and independent, often relying on a simple camera and available local support.

Purpose and Goals

The central mission of AnimaMundiMovie.com and the documentary it supports is to foster broad, reality-based dialogue on sustainability, ecological resilience, and the future of human civilization. It frames environmental crises through the lens of systems thinking and the Gaia theory—viewing Earth as a living, self-regulating organism.

• Not a "How-To", but a "Where-To" Guide: Rather than prescribing specific technical solutions, Anima Mundi illuminates viable practical and philosophical alternatives for a sustainable future.

• Incorporation of Permaculture Principles: Emphasizing permaculture as a holistic philosophy covering technology, education, health, psychology, economics, the arts, and more—not just agriculture.

• Encouraging Grassroots and Local Action: The documentary showcases approaches including Earthships, permaculture interventions (“Permablitz”), retrofitting suburbia, local food systems, alternative currencies, and planned “energy descent.”

The Documentary: Content, Structure, and Featured Voices

Anima Mundi assembles a rich tapestry of interviews, case studies, archival material, music, and visual storytelling to address complex global challenges. The underlying theme is survival and adaptation in the face of peak oil, climate change, and ecological overshoot.

Featured Contributors

The documentary’s authority and diversity stem from its cast of renowned thinkers and activists:

• David Holmgren: Co-creator of permaculture, author, and pioneer of sustainability theory

• John Seed: Deep ecology teacher and environmental advocate

• Stephan Harding: Prominent ecologist, expert on Gaia theory

• Vandana Shiva: Internationally respected human rights, ecology, and anti-globalization activist

• Noam Chomsky: Intellectual, linguist, and notable voice for activism and global justice

• Michael C. Ruppert: Author and peak oil activist

• Michael Reynolds: Architect and founder of the Earthship movement

• Dr. Mark O’Meadhra, Dr. Christine James, Dan Palmer, and Adam Grubb: Specializing in fields ranging from integrative medicine to applied permaculture

Topics Explored

• Gaia Hypothesis: Understanding the Earth as a living system that requires conscious care

• Permaculture Beyond Gardening: Applying design principles to entire communities and lifestyles

• Practical Alternatives: Highlighting viable projects—Earthships, collaborative gardening, localized economies

• Philosophical Reframing: Challenging viewers to see themselves as part of, not separate from, the planetary ecosystem

• Archival Imagery and Music: Incorporates public domain films, evocative environmental photography, and an original soundtrack

Critical Reception and Awards

Audience

The film’s viewership bridges grassroots environmentalists, academics, policy thinkers, and concerned global citizens. It is especially influential within university circles and among independent sustainability networks.

Reviews and Endorsements

The documentary attracted glowing reviews from notable participants and critics:

• Praised as “enlightening, refreshing and inspiring” for its integrative approach and lucid explanations of humanity’s ecological crisis (David Holmgren, Michael C. Ruppert)

• Described as essential, calming, and surprisingly uplifting by both advocates and general audience reviewers

• Noted for its “non-proselytizing tones” and its clarity in presenting options for societal transformation

Audience and critic feedback highlighted the film’s artistry, honesty, and refusal to sugarcoat the gravity of planetary challenges, earning it the status of “Must See” among eco-conscious viewers.

Press, Media Coverage, and Recognition

Anima Mundi’s release and mission were covered by prominent cinemas, independent film outlets, and environmental media, especially within Australia and New Zealand. Coverage focused on its timely, urgent message amidst burgeoning public discourse about oil dependency, climate change, and sustainable living.

• Cinema Features: The film was showcased in festivals and speciality cinemas, such as Paramount Cinemas in New Zealand.

• Critical Writings: Coverage in print and digital arts/culture press described the movie as “another brick in the wall of awareness,” applauding its ability to make complex ecological ideas accessible and emotionally resonant.

Cultural and Social Significance

Anima Mundi stands as an exemplar of grassroots documentary filmmaking, embodying its own subject matter by making do with what’s available, reducing ecological footprints, and prioritizing substance over spectacle. Its lasting value lies not just in the film itself, but in the online space it fosters for ongoing learning and dialogue.

• Education: Used as a required text and resource for interdisciplinary courses on sustainability, notably “Sustainable World.”

• Activism: Serves as an introduction and rallying point for permaculture projects, deep ecology initiatives, and community-scale environmental action.

Menu of Topics and Resources

The revitalized AnimaMundiMovie.com features:

• A detailed syllabus and curated reading list for sustainability courses

• Full background on the documentary, including cast, production, and philosophy

• Collection of critical reviews and press clippings

• Educational resources for further study and classroom integration

Historical Acknowledgements and Archival Materials

The film is notable for its diverse use of source material:

• Interviews and research spanned global experts, often conducted or contributed by guest filmmakers

• Archival film and imagery were drawn from public domain sources and governmental archives, alongside original footage and artwork

• Music was contributed by local artists and composers, further rooting the film in its grassroots ethos

 

AnimaMundiMovie.com, beyond being the official platform for Peter Charles Downey’s “Anima Mundi”—stands as a rare digital artifact: low-budget but high-impact, fiercely independent, and steadfastly committed to ecological education. Its influence continues through its role in classrooms, online forums, and grassroots communities. The website and film together offer a rallying point and practical compass for anyone seeking to understand and participate in the “energy descent” and ecological regeneration of the coming century.

By grounding big ideas in approachable, practical examples and personal storytelling, Anima Mundi and its online home stand out as beacons in the realm of sustainability media—a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and local action in shaping the global conversation.

 

AnimaMundiMovie.com