Deep in the mist-shrouded mountains of Bedugul, far from Bali’s bustling, plastic-cluttered shores, lives a man who has devoted his life to protecting a mythical creature whose survival is crucial to the island’s fragile ecosystem.
ABOUT THE FILM
Serpent Mountain journeys into the mist-shrouded mountains of Bali to follow Pak Jero, a Hindu priest and rainstopper, on his spiritual mission to safeguard snakes and preserve the island’s delicate ecosystem. From his modest family compound, he confronts deep-seated fears of snakes and works to restore balance between humans and nature.
As Bali faces rising tourism, plastic waste, and climate change, Pak Jero’s work becomes a fight against the destructive impact of pesticides on wildlife and soil health. With his son growing up in a rapidly changing world, the stakes are higher than ever.
The film weaves a story of cultural heritage, ecological preservation, and the urgent need for interspecies coexistence in the face of global challenges.
OUR TEAM
Our team is united by a shared mission to preserve vital cultural knowledge through bold and meaningful storytelling, drawing strength from our diverse perspectives and backgrounds.
David Gallego
Director of Photography
The visionary cinematographer behind some of the most visually stunning films of the modern era, like Oscar-nominated Embrace of the Serpent, War Pony by Elvis’ granddaughter, Riley Keough, and Rungano Nyoni’s On Becoming a Guinea Fowl, all of which premiered to acclaim at Cannes.
Sarah Høilund
Writer, director & producer
Sarah Høilund brings over a decade of experience as a multidisciplinary storyteller, focused on women’s rights, environmental issues, and mental health. Her debut fiction short Panacea premiered at Climate Film Festival NYC and Odense Int. Film festival.
Wayan Martino
Producer & Founder of Niskala Studios
Wayan Martino is an experienced Balinese director and founder of Niskala Studios, a production company supporting local talent. He adds local expertise and a singular creative lens to our team.
PAK JERO'S WORLD
Why support the film?
Serpent Mountain reveals the quiet urgency of preserving ancestral knowledge and protecting our ecosystems. Universally relevant, it speaks to the interconnectedness of all life and challenges us to reconsider our relationship with the environment in an era of ecological fragility.
Pak Jero’s wisdom serves as a powerful reminder: every action we take shapes the world around us. Serpent Mountain invites viewers to reflect deeply and take meaningful steps toward a more harmonious future.