Embark on a Slow TV Adventure: TVO’s TRIPPING Takes Viewers Down the French River
Prepare to journey down the tranquil waters of the French River in TVO’s latest Slow TV documentary, “TRIPPING The French River.” In this three-hour production, viewers will be transported 110 kilometers down the meandering river, all from the perspective of a cedar strip canoe paddler.
TRIPPING, a series that epitomizes the Slow TV movement, offers viewers a departure from the fast-paced world of traditional television. With minimal cuts and dialogue, the series invites audiences to embrace a relaxed pace and immerse themselves fully in the experience.
Mitch Azaria, the executive producer at Good Earth Productions, which produces the series for TVO, notes the minimal editing involved in TRIPPING. “I mean in our entire program we may have as many edits as a 30-second commercial has and we’re a three hour-long program,” Azaria explains. “Maybe people are searching for, you know, a quieter, immersive type of program and this does that.”
Following the success of previous episodes, such as a 480-kilometer train journey from Sudbury to White River, TRIPPING The French River promises to captivate viewers with its unique perspective and immersive storytelling. Beyond the journey itself, the documentary offers occasional insights into the area’s history and landmarks.
“In TRIPPING The French River, viewers will enjoy fascinating features of a unique and storied waterway that offers a window into Canada’s past,” says John Ferri, TVO’s vice-president of programming and content.
The episode delves into the rich history of the French River, from its role in the fur trade to its significance to Indigenous communities. Viewers will witness firsthand the natural beauty of the river, from its soaring cliffs to its fast rapids, all while learning about its cultural and historical significance.
To capture the essence of the French River, the production team employed innovative filming techniques, including attaching a new camera system made by DJI to the bow of a canoe. This allowed for stunning visuals that bring the river’s serene beauty to life on screen.
With its diverse landscapes and rich history, the French River serves as the perfect backdrop for TRIPPING’s latest adventure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply in search of a tranquil escape, TRIPPING The French River promises to deliver a captivating journey down one of Canada’s most storied waterways.
Don’t miss the premiere of TRIPPING The French River on Sunday at 8 p.m., or catch it on TVO’s YouTube channel for an immersive Slow TV experience unlike any other.
