Scorched

In Scorched, Paul Wong utilizes a picture-in-picture style to present four recordings from the Sonoran and Mojave deserts. The film captures the harsh realities of life in these extreme climates, showcasing both the natural landscape and the remnants of human habitation.

The documentary juxtaposes the study of an empty swimming pool, once part of a yacht club, with images of abandoned habitats and trailer parks near the Salton Sea. The graffiti-covered pool, frequented by skateboarders, serves as a poignant reminder of past human endeavors in this unforgiving environment.

As viewers are shown the stark beauty of the Joshua Tree and surrounding areas, the film prompts reflection on humanity's attempts to coexist with nature amidst abandonment and decay. This combination of visuals and themes makes Scorched a thought-provoking piece for those interested in documentary filmmaking and environmental commentary.