Title: Sanctuary

Year: 2019

Runtime: 16 minutes 54 seconds

Format: Short Documentary

Genre: Observational Documentary

Location: Rural Turkey

Language: English / Turkish

Subtitles: English

Starring: Jeannie Thirkill

Sound Recordist / Sound Designer: Zac Wichlei

Sound Editor: Zac Wichlei

Director: Christina Penteridou

Producer: Livan Garcia

Camera: Dylan Bruce

Editor: Olivia Ay

Production: University of Westminster

Film Overview

Sanctuary is a short observational documentary following a woman who relocated thousands of miles from her home to establish an animal sanctuary in rural Turkey. Filmed in an unfamiliar and fast-changing environment, the documentary captures daily life, labour, and ethical care within the sanctuary.

The film was produced under significant logistical pressure following a late-stage change in location, requiring the crew to adapt rapidly to new cultural, environmental, and technical conditions.

Synopsis

Developed initially as a documentary set in Kenya, Sanctuary underwent a significant shift during pre-production, relocating to Turkey with only days to prepare. The film observes a woman who has left her home country to create a sanctuary for animals in the Turkish countryside, documenting her routines, responsibilities, and the realities of sustaining such a space.

Rather than constructing a narrative of explanation, Sanctuary relies on observation and environment, allowing sound, atmosphere, and daily action to shape the audience’s understanding of place and commitment.

Sound & Field Recording

My role on Sanctuary encompassed location sound recording, boom operation, and sound design during an international documentary shoot under rapidly changing conditions.

With limited preparation time and no opportunity for reshoots, sound recording became critical in establishing continuity, atmosphere, and spatial context. Much of the film’s emotional grounding relies on environmental sound, animals, labour, wind, and movement rather than dialogue-driven exposition.

Working closely with the camera in active environments required constant communication and adaptability. The production reinforced the importance of sound not only as a technical capture element but also as a storytelling tool that can compensate for visual limitations and strengthen a sense of place.