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Explorer Aleksandrs Laime's jungle adventures inspire new animated film
๐Ÿ‡ฑ๐Ÿ‡ป Latvia /Culture & Society

Explorer Aleksandrs Laime's jungle adventures inspire new animated film

From Delfi Latvia · () Latvian

Translated from Latvian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • A new animated film, "Born in the Jungle," tells the story of Latvian explorer Aleksandrs Laime.
  • Laime lived in the Venezuelan jungle for half a century, befriended indigenous chiefs, and was the first to reach the world's highest waterfall on foot.
  • The film, a Latvian, Polish, and Czech co-production, has been recognized at international festivals and will be released in over 25 countries.

The adventurous life of Latvian explorer Aleksandrs Laime, who spent 50 years in the Venezuelan jungle, is the subject of a new animated film titled "Born in the Jungle." Laime, a native of Riga, became known for his deep connection with indigenous tribes and for being the first person to reach the world's highest waterfall on foot.

Directed by Edmunds Jansons and featuring artwork by Elฤซna Brasliล†a, "Born in the Jungle" is a co-production between Latvia, Poland, and the Czech Republic. The film has already garnered attention at the prestigious Annecy International Animation Film Festival in France. Its international title, "Born in the Jungle," reflects Laime's extraordinary journey from the Grฤซziล†kalns district of Riga to the remote jungles of South America.

Laime's early life was marked by a fascination with adventure, fueled by stories from sailors and books about travel. By his teenage years, he had already traveled extensively, including a solo journey across France and a voyage to Egypt. Despite facing destitution in Cairo, he found temporary shelter in a Muslim school before his parents sent him money to return home.

The film draws inspiration from Laime's remarkable experiences, portraying a life filled with exploration and cross-cultural encounters. It aims to bring his incredible story to a global audience, following the success of previous Latvian animated films on the international stage.

DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Delfi Latvia in Latvian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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