The Edelweiss Enigma
A 63’/52′ documentary by Ruth Berry & Wolfgang Beck, creative producer: Florian Dedio
We know the Edelweiss flower as the symbol of the Alps, the harbinger of romance and symbol of bravery.
What we don’t know is that it also harbors many a secret. This documentary examines the Edelweiss with both humor and scientific accuracy, explores its history, its medicinal properties, and the many stories and myths surrounding it.
Buddhist practitioners use it as medicine and Mongolian Cowboys ignite their fires with this most-unusual kindling, and subsequently lit their muzzleloader rifles. And now scientists have found an astonishing fact related to Edelweiss: The “eternal flower” possibly even contains the key to memory.
From the Austrian Alps to the yurts of the Mongolian steppes, across nature, culture, myths, and medicine, the film seeks the truth about this flower, which has captured the imagination of millions.
“The Edelweiss Enigma” is a documentary that does not easily fit into a category, and that made it quite challenging to produce. It has everything – history, natural science, mythology, music.
Also, you know it’s going to be a good film when, during research, you keep stumbling across facts that make you do a double (or triple) take before you believe them.
Written & directed by Ruth Berry & Wolfgang Beck
Creative Producer: Florian Dedio
Produced By: Gunnar Dedio
