The authentic Maine moose hunting documentary you need to see

By V. Paul Reynolds

Although an avid hunter, most of the run-of-the-mill hunting videos that I have watched never measured up to me. They felt predictable and formulaic, not truly representative of the big game hunts that I’ve experienced over the years.

The producers tried, but most of these hunt videos were predictable, highly condensed and carefully orchestrated to retain “market share.”

Then, earlier this year, somebody called my attention to some hunting videos on YouTube produced by a Maine outfit called ‘HuntingME’. The two standouts are  “The Dream,” which features a tense bowhunt, and “The Gift,” a more reflective and poignant account of a moose hunt.  

Both video accounts of moose hunts brought hunting videos to a whole new level. Producer John Altman and his videographer Niklas Weikert are creating hunting content that rises to the occasion unlike any I’ve seen. 

Why are they so special? 

Altman and Weikert bring an artful authenticity to the hunt when plans don’t work out, or days pass with no action at all. 

Altman, who is an avid hunter, is also articulate and soulful about his passion. He brings a depth of feeling and excitement to the hunt that most hunters will identify with. The photography and editing is superb, creating a rhythm that kept me interested even during slow hunt days.

In “The Dream,” producer and bow hunter Altman faces off with a bull moose at 15 yards. If you’re a bow hunter, this footage will take your breath away.

It’s no surprise that the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife contracted with Altman to produce a documentary about the iconic Maine moose and what it means to Maine. The film is called “Guardians of the Giants” and recently premiered at a special showing in Portland.

The documentary excels in building the case that viewing moose and hunting moose are not mutually exclusive. 

The camera spends considerable time not only with moose, but with various individuals who explain what the moose presence in Maine means to them. I had the privilege of being one of those many Mainers with a cameo role.

Although the moose is the star, Maine moose biologist Lee Kantar plays an important supporting role. The footage of Kantar roping a swimming cow moose from a boat in order to install a telemetry collar, or flying low over moose in a helicopter through wind-driven snow, is remarkable.

Following the Portland screening at the Aura Events Center, the audience enjoyed a panel discussion with some folks from the film. It was an excellent complement and will be available for public viewing alongside the documentary.

Someone on the panel observed that the iconic Maine moose is as much a symbol of Maine as lobsters and blueberries, making it worthy of a film of this stature. The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife deserves commendation for underwriting this production and selecting the right filmmaker. 

If you’re among the many fascinated by this big, awkward but enthralling wild critter, don’t miss the chance to watch it.