Commissioned by Visit California and directed by Louie Schwartzberg, the film explores the landscapes and wildlife alongside Highway 1, marking its reopening after three years of disruption.

Tourist board Visit California has commissioned a new short film about Highway 1, the coastal road that runs through some of the state's most dramatic scenery, following the reopening of a section that had been closed for three years.

Directed by filmmaker Louie Schwartzberg (who also directed Fantastic Fungi) and narrated by California-born actor Josh Brolin, Highway 1 is a 30-minute documentary that explores the natural environment and communities along the route.

The film was shot earlier this year, shortly after the reopening of the road near the border of Monterey and San Luis Obispo counties. The closure had disrupted travel along one of California's most popular road trip routes, affecting businesses and communities that depend on visitors.

Known for his time-lapse cinematography, Schwartzberg uses footage of the Pacific coastline, redwood forests and marine life to encourage viewers to pay closer attention to the environment surrounding the road.

“Highway 1 has always represented something bigger than a road. It is part of California’s identity and one of the great journeys of the world,” says Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California.

“This film captures the sense of awe that has drawn people to this coastline for generations while reminding us that its future depends on how we experience it today. We want travellers to come, stay and support these communities and experience Highway 1 with the care and respect this remarkable place deserves.”

The documentary also addresses the vulnerability of California's coastline, where landslides and extreme weather have repeatedly disrupted access in recent years.

Schwartzberg and a small production crew worked with an emphasis on reducing their environmental impact while filming in sensitive natural areas. “For me, Highway 1 is a place where nature constantly reminds us of both its power and its fragility,” says Schwartzberg.

“I wanted the camera to slow us down – to let us see the light, the landscape and the life along this coast in a way we might miss when we’re simply passing through. I hope that people finish this film not only wanting to experience Highway 1, but feeling a deeper connection and responsibility to protect it.”

For Brolin, who has longstanding personal connections to California, the film offered an opportunity to tell a story about a familiar landscape from a different perspective.

“California’s coast has a way of staying with you,” says Brolin. “Highway 1 can make you feel incredibly small and incredibly alive at the same time. What I love about this film is that it doesn’t just show you how beautiful this place is. It asks you to really see it – the communities, the wildness, the history and how fortunate we are to have it. That’s something worth celebrating and taking care of.”

The film forms part of Visit California's wider effort to encourage responsible tourism along Highway 1 as travellers return to the route.

Visitors are being encouraged to check road and weather conditions before setting out, respect closures, use designated stopping points and support local businesses. Travelling outside peak periods is also recommended to help manage pressure on the coastline.

To prevent congestion and overtourism, the verges leading up to the iconic Bixby Bridge (pictured) have now been blocked off with cones so drivers can't stop to take photos, and the tourist board says it has now ceased using images of the landmark in promotional material.

A wider distribution campaign will introduce the documentary to international audiences through film festival submissions, digital channels and media events.

Highway 1 is available to watch now at movingart.com/highway1