Ohio's natural grandeur is about to get the IMAX® treatment, courtesy of the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and MacGillivray Freeman Films. The collaboration is bringing the Buckeye State's wild side to larger-than-life proportions with Ohio: Wild at Heart, a cinematic exploration of the state's diverse ecosystems and conservation efforts. Set to sweep across select giant screen theaters, the movie aims to capture the essence of Ohio's great outdoors and the human efforts to sustain it. Slated for a fall and winter release, this film is expected to be a visual feast for nature enthusiasts and the general public alike.
Governor Mike DeWine couldn't contain his excitement, believing the project would reinforce Ohio's standing as "the Heart of it All," as he put it in a statement, as detailed by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR). Narrated by Ohio native and beloved sportsperson Archie Griffin, Ohio: Wild at Heart zeroes in on conservation victories like the triumphant return of the bald eagle and the comeback saga of the trumpeter swan. Fresh off the success of their previous nature-oriented productions, this new film from MacGillivray Freeman Films promises to be an immersive experience that showcases not just wild Ohio but also its people's dedication to environmental conservation.
Mary Mertz, ODNR Director, describes the project as the department's "love letter" to its mission, emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between humans and natural spaces. "When we take care of nature, nature takes care of us," is the film's mantra, she conveyed in a recent interview, according to ODNR. The movie aims to offer a behind-the-scenes look at the efforts of ODNR naturalists and program leaders, as they work diligently to protect Ohio's natural beauty and ensure everyone can enjoy the world outside our doors.
With breathtaking aerial shots showcasing Ohio's rugged cliffs, lush waterfalls, and the expanses of the Great Lake Erie, the film's visual splendor is a fitting tribute to the state's scenic landscapes. Spectators are set to embark on a wondrous journey through the changing seasons, with views rivaled only by those from the skies above, with director and producer Shaun MacGillivray at the helm. "Whether it's a child spotting her first bald eagle or a ranger restoring a trail, their stories remind us that caring for the land brings joy and meaning," MacGillivray said in a recent press release by ODNR.
Following its launch, the film will roll out across various locations, including the KeyBank Discovery Theater in Toledo, Dayton's Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, the Cincinnati Museum Center, and more. Audiences can look forward to the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater showcasing the film in 2026, expanding the reach of Ohio's ecologically rich narratives. The trailer, already generating buzz, is available on YouTube, and those interested in concertizing their plans can get additional details on the Ohio: Wild at Heart website.
MacGillivray Freeman Films brings heavy credentials to the proverbial table as a titan in the industry of giant screen 70mm film production. With accolades like two Academy Award® nominations—among its nearly fifty IMAX® theater credits—and the honor of having three films inducted into the IMAX Hall of Fame, the team behind Ohio: Wild at Heart showcases an unyielding commitment to highlighting the wonders of the natural world and the marvels of science through their artistry.
