King Charles III continues to champion environmental issues, undeterred by past criticisms, as revealed in an upcoming Prime Video documentary titled *Finding Harmony: A King’s Vision*. Slated for release on February 6, the film offers an intimate look at the monarch’s enduring dedication to ecological matters and his vision for a more sustainable future.
A Lifelong Commitment to the Environment
In this 90-minute documentary, produced by The King’s Foundation and Amazon MGM Studios, the King articulates his concerns about the state of the planet. He expresses a sense of urgency, stating that humanity is “rapidly going backwards” and lamenting how we are “actually destroying our means to survival.” Nevertheless, he maintains a hopeful perspective, wishing for a future where there is greater awareness of the need to restore balance to our world before he departs this life.
The film captures not only his advocacy but also a more personal side of the King. Viewers will witness him engaging in simple pleasures, such as gathering eggs from his chickens at Highgrove, affectionately dubbed “Cluckingham Palace.” He even shares his culinary preference for the “red Duke of York” potato, which he insists is the best choice for a crispy baked dish.
Facing Criticism with Resilience
Actress Kate Winslet narrates the documentary and highlights the pressure Charles has faced over the years. She notes that his famous admission in a 1986 interview about talking to plants has haunted him, but it has also underscored his passion for organic gardening and the environment. Reflecting on this, Winslet shares that Charles has been a steadfast figure in environmental advocacy, despite calls for him to step back from public discourse.
The King himself remarks, “I just felt this was the approach that I was going to stick to. A course I set and I wasn’t going to be diverted from.” This determination showcases his resilience in the face of scepticism.
The Philosophy of Harmony
*Finding Harmony: A King’s Vision* also delves into the King’s philosophy of “harmony,” which he first outlined in his 2010 book of the same name. This philosophy promotes living in balance with nature, a sentiment echoed in the projects undertaken by The King’s Foundation at Dumfries House in Scotland. These initiatives focus on community regeneration, sustainable textiles, and traditional skills, all designed to foster a deeper connection with the environment.
As the documentary unfolds, it reveals the scientific foundations of his beliefs and explores his gardening practices, including the cultivation of rare vegetable varieties. With an eye towards sustainability, the King reflects on the importance of biodiversity and the need to act swiftly to address ecological decline.
A Royal Premiere
The royal premiere of *Finding Harmony* is set to take place at Windsor Castle, marking a historic moment as it is believed to be the first global film premiere held at a royal residence. A spokesperson for the King emphasized that this documentary differs from traditional royal films, stating, “There are no golden carriages here; no glittering crowns or crimson robes.” Instead, it offers a sincere exploration of the interconnectedness of all things and the belief that a sustainable future is achievable through cooperation with nature.
This film represents a significant step in how royal narratives are presented, especially as it is the King’s first documentary produced for a streaming platform.
Why it Matters
King Charles III’s unwavering commitment to environmental issues speaks volumes in a time when climate change and biodiversity loss are among the most pressing challenges facing humanity. By sharing his journey and philosophy through this documentary, he not only highlights the urgency of these matters but also inspires a collective responsibility to protect our planet. As the world increasingly grapples with environmental crises, the King’s message of harmony and sustainability serves as a vital reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things and the importance of acting now for a better future.
