We Are Stardust

For decades, astronomers across the globe have spent billions of dollars in a search for stardust, hoping to unlock the mystery of life. Amateur scientist Jón Larsen claims to have found stardust right here on Earth — in the gutter. Abandoning his career as a jazz musician to dedicate all his time and energy to his mission, he scours rooftops to gather grit, armed with a magnet and a plastic bag. Undeterred by the scientific community calling him crazy, he refuses to back down — after all, you don't find stardust on the street, but on glaciers, mountain peaks, and in space!

Director Elisabeth Rasmussen became fascinated by kind-hearted Jón's determination to prove himself and followed him for several years. With We Are Stardust, she paints an infectious and inspiring picture of his extraordinary quest, showcasing their growing friendship through tough times while being vulnerable herself. The documentary is an hommage to human curiosity, proving that beauty lies in the smallest of things.

We Are Stardust received nominations for a Golden Alexander at the 28th Thessaloniki International Documentary Festival and for the Golden Eye Award at the Zurich Film Festival. The screening at the Noordelijk Film Festival marks its Dutch premiere.

Jón Larsen will be present on Sunday for a post-screening Q&A (in English).