The Desert (1949)

Documentary funded by the Harmon Foundation. It follows their road trip through the deserts of Utah and Arizona in a wood-frame station wagon. Along the way, they camp and film dramatic desert landscapes.The film features iconic locations like Arches National Monument, Monument Valley, and Canyonlands. It includes scenes of desert wildlife (lizards, insects, a scorpion), plants (cacti), Native American petroglyphs and ruins (e.g., Newspaper Rock, Salt Creek, and possibly Beef Basin).Outdoor activities such as camping, boating on the Colorado River, off-road Jeep travel, rock climbing, and rappelling are also shown—along with small aircraft operations in remote areas.Garner’s signature visual style—long, quiet landscape shots capturing shifting light and shadow—is central to the film, which reflects his deep appreciation for nature, history, and exploration.