Following theatrical success, grossed hundreds of thousands of dollars in TV revenue and broadcasting in more than 40 countries.

Careen down an icy, steep mountain face with snowboarders; twirl above the clouds with skysurfers; climb a thirty-story tall Giant Sequoia and emerge from under the spray of one of California’s biggest, surfable waves. This film explores the vast beauty, landscapes, and creative spirit that make this state and its people unique. Audiences are introduced to such adventuresome individuals as Steve Sillett, a biologist studying life in the canopies of California’s giant redwood trees; Sue Campbell, an otter aquarist whose job is to help introduce orphaned sea otter pups back into the wild; skydivers Troy Hartman and Joe Jennings; and two ironworkers who perform the upkeep on the Golden Gate Bridge.

Produced and directed by MacGillivray Freeman Films.

Executive Producer K2 Communications

Narrated by Jimmy Smits

Featuring music by Lindsay Buckingham

Runtime: 40 minutes

Format: filmed in 15 perforation/70 mm

Where to Watch

For Educators

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Honors and Reviews

Adventures in Wild California lives up to its title…amazing footage!”
– E! Entertainment Television

“At last, a documentary-style IMAX film…that takes full advantage of the spectacular scale and vibrant visual experience of the format…glorious.”
– Fresno Bee

“By showcasing the natural and man-made wonder of California, veteran naturalist-filmmaker Greg MacGillivray successfully zeros in on the sense of awe and the optimism that have attracted so many transients here over the decades and have also inspired the few risk-takers among us. ★★★★ (out of 4)”
– Sacramento Bee

“A nonstop extravaganza of massive thrills.”
– Los Angeles Times

“…mixes spectactular stunts with an ecological message…A mixture of eye-popping and environmentally friendly adventure.”
– Atlanta Journal


  • Greg MacGillivray was named “Man of the Year” in 2001 and installed in the California Tourism Hall of Fame, where he joins Walt Disney and other California luminaries.
  • The film was also mentioned as part of the promotion of California Wild – a 3-part TV series from Discovery Communications’ International Travel Channel, which ran in primetime in the fall of 2000 and 2001.
  • United Airlines ran six 2-minute features on the film on all domestic and international flights, which played for 6 months and reached over 15 million passengers.

Visit the film website for behind-the-scenes videos, educational materials, and more.

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