For our third annual film festival, we are delighted to announce that over 200 films were submitted by filmmakers from 55 countries! Our final selection includes 34 films. We have grouped these films into seven blocks that will be shown in two locations  - Hatfield's Gladys Valley Marine Studies Building and the Newport Performing Arts Center.

Schedule of Events:

On the festival's second day, we will be showing films in the GVMSB Carmen Ford Phillips Auditorium at Hatfield and at the Newport Performing Arts Center

Film Blocks at Hatfield Marine Science Center

Block A: Passionate about Protecting, 10 a.m. (2 hours)

The Reserve by Lara Gribbin (6:36)

A short film about Cabbage Tree Bay aquatic reserve in Sydney showcasing its role for the community and marine life.

Bahari Bingwa, Turtle Protector(Link is external) by Samuel Wanjohi (7:19)

Sammy Safari is a ranger with Bahari Hai, a marine conservation nonprofit organization that works to empower coastal communities to manage and protect their resources in East Africa. Sammy runs an anti-poaching team that protects sea turtles. This is his story.

OceAnthroprogenic(Link is external) by Hafidz Ardis Setiamihardja (24:32)

OceAnthropogenic tells the story of the coral reefs in Pramuka Island, part of the Thousand Islands in Indonesia, which are facing a serious threat due to human-induced activities such as breakwaters and the activities of tourists and fishermen. In addition, plastic waste from Jakarta and its surrounding areas has also become a serious threat to the coral reefs of Pramuka Island. This crisis requires an immediate response to involve all parties in preserving the sustainability of coral reefs, considering their important role in maintaining marine stability and providing habitats for various marine species.

Palau, An Ocean Inheritance by Rayne Sullivan & Skylar Chen (19:50)

"To understand the Ocean is to understand how humanity can redeem and restore itself." Palau, An Ocean Inheritance transports viewers to the incredible islands of Palau, where ancient legends, cultural connections, and unparalleled marine biodiversity converge. This documentary celebrates Palau's natural wonders, from vibrant coral ecosystems to the majestic species that call these waters home. At
the film's core is a powerful call for ocean justice—a recognition that ocean solutions can be found in Indigenous knowledge and community-led stewardship.

Best Film Award Winner - The Blue Quest Palawan(Link is external) by Clément Pourtal & Jérôme Brousse (47:22)
A new documentary about marine conservation from award-winning filmmakers. With The Blue Quest, Clément and Jérôme travel the world to meet marine conservation projects and highlight their actions as well as the amazing people behind them. This time, they are going to Palawan, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Coral Triangle, which is "The Philippines' last ecological frontier." An area with exceptional marine biodiversity yet under threat. The Blue Quest takes you to meet the projects fighting at different levels to protect these vital ecosystems with a hopeful tool: marine protected areas.

Get Gulled by Matt McElrath (2:31)
An animated film reflecting the relatable experience of trying to enjoy your lunch on the beach under the watchful eye of a seagull… The perfect short film to kick off the lunch hour!

Block B: Beneath the Blue: Tech Explorations, 1 p.m. (2 hours)

When a Plan Comes Together by Mónika Naranjo-Shepherd (5:38)

When a researcher says "We found something beyond what we could ever expect," you know it is time to pay attention. Using a combination of cutting-edge technology - including sonars on Research Vessel Falkor (too) and autonomous underwater vehicles, CTD sampling, and a Remotely Operated Vehicle - a science team made a breathtaking discovery, locating black smoker hydrothermal vents on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, deep under the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. The remarkable feat of multi-faceted detective work used new research strategies and technology and led to this amazing reveal.

An Ocean in Bloom(Link is external) by Emme Watkins (22:51)

An Ocean in Bloom explores the intricate relationship between human activity, marine ecosystems, and the ongoing struggle against harmful algal blooms, specifically red tides. Through the voices of a NASA scientist, a Florida fishing captain, and medical professionals, the film delves into the devastating impacts of red tides on coastal communities, the economy, and marine life. As time unfolds, the need for global awareness and action is essential to protect our oceans, as solutions lie not only in viewing our planet from space but also in our collective responsibility to safeguard the planet’s fragile ecosystems.

Best Student Film Award Winner - Ocean Watch - A Story of Deep Sea Exploration by Leo Richards (40:12)

Join us aboard the state-of-the-art research vessel, R/V Falkor (too), a beacon of modern oceanographic exploration. Equipped with leading-edge technology and an advanced underwater robot capable of plunging to depths of 4,500 meters, R/V Falkor (too) is your gateway to witnessing the uncharted wonders of the deep sea.
Experience the thrill of discovery as expert teams unveil groundbreaking findings from their latest scientific missions. Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing beauty of underwater ecosystems - marvel at viewing new species, each a puzzle piece in understanding our planet’s most enigmatic environment. Witness the groundbreaking research and innovative technologies shining a light on the Ocean’s darkest depths.

Oregon Field Guide: Bill & the Volcano by Jes Burns (25:40)
Axial volcano is one of the most active volcanoes on the planet and it exists just off the coast of Oregon. Volcanologist Bill Chadwick is on a quest to discover what it can teach us about predicting volcanic eruptions.

Block C: Women, Water and Wonder, 4 p.m (2 hours)

Deep Memories by Rafael Quiroga (9:02)

Deep Memories is a captivating documentary diving into the world of underwater photography and its ability to inspire environmental consciousness. Through the lens of a passionate photographer, the film takes us on a journey from personal fascination with the sea to a profound connection with its conservation. Ultimately, "Deep Memories" is a call to action, urging viewers to become stewards of the sea, using photography and passion as tools for change.

Granny Grommets(Link is external) by Leah Rustomjee (8:59)

Every Friday morning, the Granny Grommets meet at Middleton Beach to catch a wave, turning the tide on what becomes expected of us as we age. This film is a mediation on what it means to get older told through the lens of the Granny Grommets.

Mexillonaria(Link is external) by Pablo Chouza (15:00)

The mussel in Galicia has its own character. Consumed from the Iron era to the present day, marking a turning point with the arrival of the first boats in the Ría de Arousa around 1945. At this time, it goes from a rustic and primary collection to being transformed into a crop, becoming the economic engine for many coastal communities. And something inherent in the take-off of this activity is the women. They were the ones who, with their tenacity and firmness, were able to bring many families forward. Working on land and also at sea. We have Celia, an example of commitment to the present, respect for the origins of her work and concern for the future. Through Celia's eyes, we not only learn about mussel cultivation, but also go through a process of reflection on the past, present and future of this profession in the Ría de Arousa. Mexillonaria is a short documentary film about the female sailor and the ecology in the Ría de Arousa.

Coexistence(Link is external) by Anne-Sophie Mauraud & Lucie Francini (15:59)

Anne-Sophie Mouraud, a French freediver passionate about sharks, takes a team of activists to encounter the blue shark, the most heavily fished shark in the world. The film raises awareness about the significant role played by the European Union in the global shark fin trade, and invites us to reconsider our relationship with the living world.

Heart of the Sea(Link is external) by Dr. Shireen Rahimi (6:00)

In Heart of the Sea, Bermudian scientists, poets, and political leaders take us on a journey through the mysteries and wonders of Bermuda's oceans and the threats they face due to climate change. The film bridges past and present, delving into the island’s underwater shipwrecks, now teeming with marine life, then showcasing Bermudians doing groundbreaking science to protect marine
ecosystems. These stories find their symbolic thread in the dance of the iconic Gombey, a cultural ritual forged by the island's diverse cultural influences. The Gombey guides us toward a vision for Bermuda's future: a future made up of thriving oceans, communities, and economies alike.

Women on the Water(Link is external) by Haley McHatton (44:00)

In the male-dominated industries of fishing and aquaculture, women are breaking down barriers and forging their own paths to success. Women on the Water tells the stories of six women in New Hampshire who have overcome personal and societal challenges to establish themselves in lobstering, oyster farming, tuna fishing, and seafood distribution on their own terms. Discover what independence, determination, and grit look like for women making a name for themselves on the water in the Granite State.

Film Blocks at Newport Performing Arts Center

Block D, Stewards of the Sea, 9:30 a.m. (2 hours)

Highway in the Sky(Link is external) by Lean Fritzie Patrimonio (13:28)

Highway in the Sky (Harupoy sa Hangin) takes viewers to Olango Island, a sanctuary for migratory birds on the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. Locals recount the island’s past and narrate the present. While a longtime bird watcher and author of Birds of Cebu and Bohol Philippines presents the significance of Olango Island.

Not All Those Who Wander(Link is external) by Rhys Watkin (12:00)

Michael Pierson, an Oceanic Society naturalist based in San Francisco, embarks on a singular mission: to find Morris, the only northern gannet in the Pacific. Through this captivating narrative, Not All Who Wander explores the unique bond between a man and a bird, offering a moving testament to the powerful connection between nature and the human spirit. With cinematography that captures the breathtaking Northern Californian coast, and an emotionally charged storyline, the film showcases the unwavering determination of a man who sees himself in an unlikely feathered friend and who ultimately finds solace in the notion that, indeed, not all those who wander…are lost.

Open Season(Link is external) by Nicolas Winkler (45:02)

Nestled in the Windward Islands lies the island of Grenada, home to one of the most endangered species on the planet, the hawksbill sea turtle. Filmed exclusively in Grenada, Open Season tells the story of a unique and dedicated team of researchers and fishermen working to understand and protect Grenada’s last remaining sea turtles in the face of one of the world’s longest open hunting seasons for sea turtles.

Best in Activism Award Winner - Salmon Secrets(Link is external) by Jeremy Mathieu (40:50)

An investigation to understand the impacts of the fish farm industry on the West
coast of Vancouver Island.

Get Gulled by Matt McElrath (2:31)

This animated film reflects the relatable experience of trying to enjoy your lunch
on the beach under the watchful eye of a seagull… The perfect short film to kick
off the lunch hour!

Block E, Seaweed & Sustainable Futures, 12:30 p.m. (2 hours)

Rise Age by Tatjana Theuer (4:42)

Fluorescent critters groove through a coastal world led by a superior choir. Their carefree crawl, however, is increasingly disturbed by the rising seas. As an invisible force gnaws its way up the beaches, one individual after another disappears. But is an invisible danger really worth slowing down the usual crawl?

Catch 22 by Cathal Mckeown, Maya Bengard, Kylie Jasnoch (17:14)

When the kelp in Goleta Bay disappears after a major El Niño event, a diverse group of fishermen, innovators, and scientists must navigate funding, access, and motivational challenges in a bid to restore the seafloor after over forty years of ecological imbalance. Can they do it?

Green Ocean Gold(Link is external) by Olaf Lawrence (16:34)

Three ocean dwellers come to terms with a jeopardy that threatens the place they feel most alive, looking for a sustainable future in seaweed.

Seas of Change by Sigrid Sortland (16:49)

Set on the island of Sandhornoy in Northern Norway, five young innovators have devoted their lives to kelp farming. Kelpinor, which began as a student start-up, has grown into a climate-action company dedicated to large-scale kelp cultivation. Their close friendship, shared passion for the environment, and commitment to sustainable practices drive them forward to reach their long-term mission: phasing out the use of wild-harvested seaweed for agricultural purposes through
sustainable aquaculture.

Eating: The Power to Save the Ocean(Link is external) by Julien Challandes (52:00)

What if our food could save the ocean? The ocean is the source of life. The ocean is vital, but it is under threat. And that is mainly because of our food. We don't think about it because we can't see it, but what we eat can have serious consequences for the health of the ocean. Fortunately, solutions do exist. In France, men and women are already laying the foundations for more sustainable eating. Malaury, a young ocean activist, sets off to hitchhike the roads of France to meet them. She will try to better understand the impacts of our food on the ocean. Above all, she will discover tangible solutions for eating well while preserving the ocean.

Block F, Ocean Adventures Await, 3 p.m. (2 hours)

Justice Brothers(Link is external) by Kieran Hodges (5:20)

In Busua, Ghana a group of young men who taught themselves to surf as children using wooden planks now extend their knowledge and skill to their community. Today, with their own surf school, they are empowering local girls, teaching them how to swim, surf, and embrace the ocean, rather than fear it. This short documentary captures this journey, showcasing the transformative impact of surfing, as well as the joy and freedom that comes with understanding nature and being with your people.

Belov: A Life at Sea(Link is external) by Tiago Abubakir (16:35)

The first biographical documentary film about the greatest Brazilian sailor by miles traveled; the living legend who spent, in total, 10 years at sea. Setting sail from Salvador - Bahia - Brazil, Capital of the Blue Amazon, the Ukrainian Brazilian personality Aleixo Belov has already circumnavigated the globe five times, three of them alone, aboard a little sailboat built in his own backyard.

Wild Sea by Tom Vetterl (14:34)

Wild Sea is a captivating short documentary that delves into the life of Jeff Allen, a trailblazing figure in the world of sea kayaking. The film illuminates the transformative power of the sea as Jeff finds purpose and healing through his connection with the ocean. Wild Sea is a poignant exploration of resilience, redemption, and the profound bond between humanity and the sea, offering a profound testament to the healing power of nature.

The Weekend Sailor(Link is external) by Bernardo Arsuaga (1:13:00)

The Weekend Sailor is a feature documentary about the unexpected victory of the Mexican yacht Sayula II in the first crewed sailing race around the world in 1974. The most demanding sailing quest in history.

Block G, Our Blue World, 6:30 p.m. (1.5 hours)

Our Blue World: A Water Odyssey(Link is external) by Ruán Magan (1:30:00)

Water connects all life; it defines our sense of place, culture and spirituality. This ground-breaking documentary, Our Blue World, narrated by Liam Neeson, introduces a collection of extraordinary individuals who are harnessing natural flows and unearthing the ancient wisdom of our ancestors. This beautiful documentary celebrates the wonder of water, revealing how since the beginning of time water defined our meaning, our spirituality, our lives and our joys through every precious drop. Ultimately, Our Blue World is a film of hope, showing how each one of us has the power through our interaction with water to transform our planet for good. Our Blue World (2024) is the sequel to the award-winning documentary, Brave Blue World (2020).

Click here to Buy Tickets