For the First Time, Documentary Cameras Follow the Annual 'Herd in Iceland'

Janson Media today announced the release of the documentary Herd in Iceland (1 x 30') to worldwide television, VOD, digital platforms and non-theatrical markets. The film offers an in-depth look at the annual round up of the country's prized purebred horses by the native herdsman. The vivid footage from both land and air captures Iceland's extraordinary lanscape and long-standing traditions. The film recently won an award for best documentary short at the Black Hills Film Festival.

For over 1,000 years, Icelandic law has made it illegal to import horses onto the island. For that reason, Icelandic horses are a pure breed, isolated by oceanic borders.During the summer months, the horses live a remote and wild existence, grazing in the highlands and raising their young. Every September, they are rounded up by local farmers and directed across the rugged terrain to reunite with their owners. It"s a breathtaking tradition that unites the country.

Herd in Iceland, a film by Lindsay Blatt and Paul Taggart, documents the annual horse round-up. The result is a unique and moving portrait of Iceland"s people, horses, and stunning landscape.

Herd in Iceland began filming in the fall of 2010, when Lindsay Blatt and Paul Taggart traveled to Iceland to document the Icelandic herders as they collected their horses across the island"s remote terrain. This valued tradition is a social and cultural touchstone for both the farmers who own the horses and the city dwellers who travel to the countryside to participate.

The horse holds a precious place in Icelandic culture, art and tradition; for over 1,000 years Icelandic law has prohibited the importation of horses onto the island. By telling the story of this annual journey, Herd in Iceland captures the symbolism behind the horses and the nation they represent.

Lindsay and Paul spent time with the herders and others who ensure that this tradition continues. They filmed from land and air, foot and hoof across the vast Icelandic landscape, following and living with the herdsmen. Herd in Iceland takes you into a journey that is largely unknown but filled with meaning and beauty for those who sustain it.

Herd in Iceland is the result of a successful Kickstarter campaign and a partnership with IcelandAir. Accomplished photographer Lindsay Blatt came together with journalist Paul Taggart for three weeks of production in September and October of 2010 across the vast Icelandic landscape. Herd in Iceland has been featured in the New York Times, Harper's Magazine, The Boston Globe and more.