Grasshopper Republic (2023)
A documentary plunging into Uganda's forests, where young men harvest swarming grasshoppers using ingenious light-trap rigs in a remarkable seasonal ritual.
Grasshopper Republic - Movie Information
- Original Title: Grasshopper Republic
- Release Year: 2023
- Directed by: Daniel McCabe
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Documentary
- Runtime: 1h 34m
- Original Language: LG
- Spoken Languages: Ganda
- Production Companies: XTR
- Production Countries: United States of America
Grasshopper Republic - Plot
Deep in the forests of Uganda, millions of grasshoppers gather to mate in devastating swarms. A group of young men set up a strange contraption at the edge of the crop fields, with customised generators, large quantities of light bulbs, barrels and sheet metal. They can then begin harvesting the grasshoppers, a prized delicacy among city dwellers.
Where to Watch Grasshopper Republic
Looking for where to watch Grasshopper Republic?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Grasshopper Republic - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Daniel McCabe
Producers
- Alyse Ardell Spiegel
- Daniel McCabe
- Michele Sibiloni
Grasshopper Republic - FAQs
What is Grasshopper Republic about?
Grasshopper Republic follows a group of young men in Uganda's forests who set up elaborate light-trap contraptions to harvest swarming grasshoppers — a prized delicacy among city dwellers. The film is a quietly mesmerizing portrait of ingenuity, labor, and the rhythms of an unusual seasonal trade.
How do the men in the film catch grasshoppers?
The harvesters build custom rigs using generators, large quantities of light bulbs, barrels, and sheet metal at the edge of crop fields. The lights attract millions of grasshoppers swarming to mate, funneling them into collection barrels — a surprisingly effective and visually striking method passed down through generations.
Where can you watch Grasshopper Republic?
You can find all available streaming and viewing options for Grasshopper Republic on JustWatch, which lists current platforms, rental, and purchase options by region. Availability may vary depending on your location, so checking JustWatch is the easiest way to find where it's playing near you.
Who directed Grasshopper Republic?
Grasshopper Republic was directed by Daniel McCabe, who also served as a producer on the film. McCabe is known for his immersive observational documentary style, and this project — set deep in Uganda's forests — showcases his talent for finding extraordinary stories in overlooked corners of the world.
Is Grasshopper Republic based on real events?
Yes, the film documents a real and recurring phenomenon in Uganda, where seasonal grasshopper swarms are harvested as a highly sought-after food source. The practice is deeply embedded in local culture and economy, and the documentary captures it with an observational, non-interventionist approach that feels entirely authentic.
Who composed the music for Grasshopper Republic?
The score for Grasshopper Republic was composed by Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe, an experimental musician and composer known for his hypnotic, drone-based soundscapes. His atmospheric work adds a meditative, almost otherworldly texture to the film's visuals, deepening the immersive quality of the documentary experience.
How long is Grasshopper Republic?
Grasshopper Republic runs for 94 minutes — just under an hour and a half. It's a lean, focused runtime that suits the film's contemplative, observational style, giving viewers enough time to sink into the world of Uganda's grasshopper harvesters without overstaying its welcome.
What films are similar to Grasshopper Republic?
If Grasshopper Republic appeals to you, you might also enjoy Naqoyqatsi (2002) for its meditative visual style, or Birth of the Living Dead (2013) for its focused documentary storytelling. McQueen (2018) and Champs (2015) are also worth exploring for fans of intimate, character-driven non-fiction filmmaking.
More About Grasshopper Republic
Explore further details and official listings for Grasshopper Republic below.