In 2020, Justin Black, Will Gemma, and Dietrich Teschner embarked on an epic adventure to not only paddle the James continuously from the headwaters of the river to their hometown of Richmond, but also to film their trip every canoe stroke of the way.
While Headwaters Down certainly captures the spirit of adventure, the team initially conceptualized the film from an environmental approach and their desire to spotlight the importance of protecting our natural resources. It watches like a love letter to the river, and reminds us that we choose the role we play in the story of the James.
Listen to Stories by the James, Fridays at 6:44 a.m. and 8:44 a.m. during NPR's Morning Edition and at 4:44 p.m. during NPR's All Things Considered on VPM News (88.9 WCVE).