The Film
This is Your Ocean: Sharks
Newport Beach, CA – Art, science, and a bond of trust fuse together to shatter public perception of sharks in a new documentary, “This is Your Ocean: Sharks.” All barriers between people and sharks are removed in an effort to depict these animals in a new light. Narrated by legendary oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle, this documentary takes you on an adventure with world renowned marine life artists Wyland, Dr. Guy Harvey, and shark expert Jim Abernethy.
The Newport Beach Film Festival will host the world premiere of “This is Your Ocean: Sharks” at 6:30 pm on April 29, 2011, at the Lido Theater in Newport Beach, CA. All three artists featured in this film are scheduled to be on hand for the opening and will be available to take questions from the audience following the presentation.
“This is Your Ocean: Sharks” looks at the global plight of sharks and introduces the audience to a massive 14-foot tiger shark named Emma. Jim Abernethy’s connection and love for this animal plays a key role in the film with never before seen footage that will have some revaluating their perception of sharks. “We can no longer look at sharks as monsters. My relationship with Emma hopefully dispels that misconception and reveals the truth about these awesome animals. It’s time to share this message with the world.”
The documentary features three talented artists whose unique perspective on conservation delivers an engaging message. For Wyland, working to save sharks is just an extension of the work he’s done with marine mammals. “By protecting sharks, by protecting the ocean, we protect ourselves. It’s that simple.”
Dr. Guy Harvey works to replace myth with fact everyday though his ocean foundation. “Sharks are not eating us, we’re eating them. That’s the big overall picture and that needs to change.”
Emmy award-winning producer George C. Schellenger directed and produced this timely documentary. “The decisions we make right now determine the future of these animals and the future of our oceans. We’ve made a film that’s like nothing else you’ve seen. It’s the start of a new paradigm.”
The film mostly focuses on the Bahamas but was shot around the world in places like Asia. Captured on film by Shawn Heinrichs, we witness the massive harvesting and destruction of sharks, a harvest driven by an obsession with shark fin soup and other shark products.
Ann Church, from the organization KIDS FIRST!, says it’s an adventure for the entire family. “Wyland has a way of connecting people with the sea, Dr. Harvey brings the science, and Jim Abernethy brings unprecedented first-hand knowledge of sharks along with a deep passion for these animals -- plus how could you not fall in love with Emma?”
Premiering the film at the Newport Beach Film Festival has very special meaning for Wyland. “Newport Beach is my home and the perfect venue for this new documentary that will inspire a generation today about the importance of living sharks to the health of the ocean. Twenty-five years ago diving the open blue waters of the Pacific between Catalina and San Clemente Islands, you would always see blue and thresher sharks. Today they are gone, hunted to near extinction. We must protect them now,” says Wyland.
The film will be in the Eco Spotlight on Friday, April 29, 2011 at the Newport Beach Film Festival. Tickets are available now.
Newport Beach Film Festival
Set in beautiful Newport Beach, a few blocks away from spectacular coastline and less than an hour from Hollywood, the Festival annually host several premieres and galas for a singular festival experience. Films will be shown throughout the city that boasts one of the largest movie consumer groups in the world, a rich filmmaking history as well as fine dining, shopping, and exceptional recreational activities.
In addition, the Newport Beach Film Festival offers filmgoers a rare opportunity to meet the filmmakers. Directors, screenwriters and cinematographers eager to share their work will provide an exclusive inside look at the industry during post-screening Q&A's.
KIDS FIRST!
This is Your Ocean: Sharks is proud to be working with KIDS FIRST!. KIDS FIRST! is supported by more than 17 million teachers, librarians, media professionals, lobbyists, policymakers, child advocates, educators, parents and families nationwide. Campaign support for the KIDS FIRST! Film Critics program comes from national nonprofit organizations that include the National Education Association, REEL Fathers, National Association of Elementary School Principals and the National Council of Women's Organizations, with a cumulative membership of over 17 million.