cinema

Filmmaker Michael Raabe (GHOSTS OF THE PACIFIC: A WHITE SEA BASS STORY)

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GHOSTS OF THE PACIFIC: A WHITE SEA BASS STORY, 63min., USA
Directed by Michael Raabe
Ghosts of the Pacific, a captivating and visually stunning documentary that delves into the mysterious world of the white sea bass, a prized and elusive species that has captured the imagination of spearfishermen along the Pacific coast. Through breathtaking underwater cinematography and intimate storytelling, the film explores the challenges and rewards of pursuing these “ghosts” of the deep.

http://www.raabephoto.com/
https://www.facebook.com/mike.raabe/
https://www.instagram.com/raabeproductions/

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
I’ve always been drawn to the ocean, both for its beauty and mystery, and I wanted to create something that would capture the thrill of underwater exploration and respect for marine life. This film was a chance to dive deeper into that passion, share the intense experience of spearfishing, and spotlight the incredible wildlife we encounter—particularly the white sea bass, whose behaviors and conservation I wanted to shed light on.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It took around a year from concept to completion. The project involved extensive planning, fieldwork, and countless hours spent editing to craft a narrative that would captivate and educate viewers. Every step of the process added a new layer to the film, making it a journey in itself.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Adventure and Discovery.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Securing the right footage was definitely challenging. Nature doesn’t work on a schedule, and capturing underwater scenes can be unpredictable. I also encountered hurdles around some sensitive topics with interviewees, so navigating those conversations while remaining true to the film’s vision was a delicate balance.

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
Hearing their reactions was incredibly rewarding. I was thrilled to see that the film’s message about adventure and respect for marine ecosystems resonated with viewers. It reaffirmed my belief in the power of storytelling to inspire others.

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I’ve always loved storytelling, especially about the ocean and wildlife. I realized I wanted to make films when I saw the impact visual storytelling had on people—it was a way to bring them on the journey with me, to experience the ocean’s beauty and intensity as if they were right there beside me.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
I’d have to say Jaws. Its storytelling, suspense, and how it captures the ocean’s mystery have always inspired me.

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Offering more networking opportunities would be a big plus. Meeting fellow filmmakers, sharing insights, and potentially collaborating on future projects would enhance the festival experience even more. Also, live Q&A sessions where filmmakers can directly interact with the audience could add a deeper connection.

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experience been working on the festival platform site?
FilmFreeway has been fantastic—it’s easy to use, and it streamlines the process of finding festivals that align with my work. The platform has been a great tool for filmmakers looking to connect with audiences worldwide.

10. What is your favorite meal?
A seafood feast! Freshly caught fish, especially when prepared right after a dive, is my idea of a perfect meal.

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes, I’m in the early stages of a project focused on sea otters, abalone, and the vital role they play within the kelp forest ecosystem. It’s a complex story that weaves together historical perspectives, conservation efforts, and marine biology, and I’m excited to bring these elements together to highlight the importance of protecting these habitats.

Short Film Review: HOLE PUNCHED EAR. Directed by Alan Yammin, Ben Tull

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HOLE PUNCHED EAR, 8min., USA

Directed by Alan Yammin, Ben Tull

In a dystopian Chicago, a poet, bound by a strange countdown clock, struggles to finish a poem as her sister tries to free her.

https://holepunchedearfilm.wixsite.com/home

https://instagram.com/hole_punched_ear/

Review by Victoria Angelique

The remarkable, dystopian film HOLE PUNCHED EAR, employs cinematic filmmaking techniques that make the audience long for more from this short narrative. The story begins strong, with heavy rain pouring over a skyscraper that is later revealed to be a prison. Something bad is about to happen, the score and graphics set the stage to the point that if everything turned out okay, it would be a surprise. Fortunately the filmmakers, Alan Yammin and Ben Tull, do not disappoint. 

The futuristic setting is apparent within the first minute of the film, when Zorina’s arm displays a timer counting down that is imbedded into her skin. It’s not quite clear how this is possible, but it feels normal within this universe to the point that writing with a pencil and paper feels out of place. This gives the feeling that Zorina is very much out of her element within the prison as she awaits execution for a crime that in not revealed within the film.

This film could easily be turned into a feature film as the narration and visual cues leave the feeling of Faye desiring justice for her sister. It feels as if more is yet to come, while also being complete as a short film. It gives a cinematic feel with fantastic direction and acting. The beginning to the end makes this film intriguing, peaking curiosity with the desire to explore more of this particular universe.  

Yammin and Tull were able to tackle the premise of leaving the audience wanting more of this story. The set up of the universe is almost at an expert level, with stellar graphics and wardrobe to contrast the old world that Zorina is from despite the fact that she is about to be executed in this futuristic, dystopian society that is hell-bent on controlling people.