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Feature Film Review: RED SEA Brother Islands a Scuba Dive Adventure. Directed by Christian Wehrle

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Synopsis:

“RED SEA: Brother Islands A Scuba Dive Adventure” takes you on an exhilarating journey beneath the waves of the Red Sea to explore the enchanting underwater realms of the Brother Islands. This documentary showcases the vibrant marine life, captivating coral formations, and mysterious wrecks that lie in the depths, offering a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of one of the world’s top dive destinations.

Review by Parker Jesse Chase:

“RED SEA: Brother Islands A Scuba Dive Adventure” takes viewers on an exhilarating journey beneath the waves of the Red Sea, exploring the enchanting underwater realms of the Brother Islands. This documentary showcases the vibrant marine life, captivating coral formations, and mysterious wrecks that lie in the depths, offering a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of one of the world’s top dive destinations.


The film immerses the audience in the daily life of a scuba diver, from the routine preparations to the thrilling discoveries made beneath the sea. As the divers plunge into the blue waters, viewers are treated to an array of marine creatures, from the smallest, most colorful fish to majestic sea turtles, stealthy sharks, and formidable barracudas. Each encounter is meticulously captured, allowing us to experience the awe and wonder that comes with exploring such a rich and diverse ecosystem.


Educational yet accessible, this nature documentary imparts valuable information about marine life and the unique environment of the Red Sea. The documentary strikes a perfect balance, offering a wealth of knowledge in a manner that is both engaging and digestible for viewers of all ages.


The cinematography by Christian Wehrle is nothing short of spectacular. His work brilliantly showcases the stunning landscape beneath the sea, with vibrant colors and breathtaking scenes transporting the audience to this underwater paradise. These moments are not just visually captivating but also emotionally stirring, offering a profound appreciation for the delicate balance of marine life. The film’s visual appeal is further enhanced by the soothing voice of Casey Campbell, whose narration guides us through the aquatic wonders with a calm and inviting presence.


In essence, “RED SEA: Brother Islands A Scuba Dive Adventure” is a visual and educational feast. It offers a tranquil yet exhilarating escape into one of the world’s most beautiful underwater locales, making it a must-watch for anyone with a love for the ocean and its many mysteries. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a curious land-dweller, this documentary promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the Red Sea.

Short Film Review: THE DOLPHIN DILEMMA. Directed by Olivia Andrus-Drennan

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Synopsis:

Imagine, waking up being covered in third-degree burns, that’s what it’s like for the Burrunan dolphins in Australia. But why is this happening? That’s what Dr. Duignan, Director of Pathology at The Marine Mammal Center, Dr. Stephen’s from Murdoch University, and Dr. Robb from the Marine Mammal Foundation had to find out. This film explores this international collaboration that proves for the first time that these lesions being found on cetaceans around the world are only caused by climate change.

Review by Julie Sheppard:

From the opening frame of this short film “The Dolphin Dilemma” warning that the “program contains scenes that some viewers may find disturbing”, I was gearing up for the worst. And, after watching the film in full I did find myself, at times, feeling quite disturbed. The film does an excellent job presenting the case that climate change is responsible for catastrophic damage to the globe. Specifically, the film displays in a crystal clear way how climate change is causing Burrunan dolphins in Australia to develop life-threatening skin lesions, due to the increase in heavy fresh water rainfall in otherwise salt water, the water in which dolphins usually thrive and for which their skin is suited. The devoted local scientists and PhD candidate do a convincing job in their interviews, detailing their processes of investigation about these lesions, and how they finally deduce that climate change is indeed the culprit.

The film masterly uses CGI diagrams to explain the increase of fresh water in the area after heavy rainfall, and how the cells of dolphin skin can no longer keep water out due to the increased exposure to fresh water. It also explains climate change using CGI in such an effective way, to non-scientific types such as myself.

The display of terrifying still photos of lesion-ridden dolphins is fortunately offset by the playful under and over water footage of frolicking dolphins shot from the boat of the observing scientists. The effective soundtrack often moves the tone of the piece from ominous to fanciful and upbeat.

Presenting a rather optimistic outlook overall, the film gives the viewer an inside look at the development of the Marine Mammal Foundation, which helps to educate and strive for policies to combat climate change, by acknowledging that the dolphin is an important “indicator species” to show the state of the world’s environment. For such a short film, it really stirs the fire for change in the viewer seeing one of the most beloved mammals suffer in this way. It swimmingly achieves its goal. 

https://www.bigskygenesis.com/films

https://www.facebook.com/BigSkyGenesisProductions/ https://www.instagram.com/bigskygenesisproductions/

https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/audience-feedback-dolphin-dilemma

Feature Film Review: SURVIVING TO THRIVING. Directed by Karin Isabelle Ochsner

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As a fearless explorer with a disability, surfer and surf coach Karin Ochsner immerses herself in the raw beauty of nature. Her remarkable healing journey unfolds in the face of adversity.

http://www.surfingtosurvive.com/film2

https://www.instagram.com/surfingtosurvive/

Review by Andie Karvelis:

Have you ever caught yourself in the middle of a pity party? I know I have. Most humans can get bogged down feeling sorry for themselves, especially in this technological age. Life is hard.

We struggle, we whine ( I’m so guilty here ), sometimes we even say “Forget it” and throw the towel in on something that’s just too difficult. There are times we just need inspiration and times we need a good swift kick in the…

Karin Ochsner is both inspiring and a refreshing kick in the pants. This documentary is an incredible tale of endurance, bravery and the unyielding spirit of a woman who wasn’t going to give up. You see Karin has a very rare immune system illness that makes her allergic to, well, everything. Imagine being allergic to almost everything in your house that you have to sleep outside. Salt water is the only water you can tolerate, and even when you think you have it under control, your allergies change.


I cannot imagine what Karin has gone through but I do know she never once threw herself a pity party. She adapted constantly. The interviews with Karin, her friends, co-workers, and doctors were all a testament to this wonderful woman’s spirit.

The cinematography alone in this film is absolutely stunning. That is thanks to Andy Bowles and several other talented Directors of Photography. Andy Bowles and Karin Ochsner produced this inspiring film together and they make a fantastic team.

Next time I start to whinge about my paltry issues, I am going to think about Karin and find the motivation to overcome my obstacles.

Watch the DOC International Showcase – April 20/21 event

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Go to the Daily Film Festival Platform http://www.wildsound.ca and sign up for the free 7 day trial to watch a new and original festival every single day.

Go to the festival page directly and watch dozens of films:
https://www.wildsound.ca/todays-film-festival/

Watch the festival: https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/april-20-doc-international

See the Full Lineup of Films:

THE ROAD OF INHERITANCE, 9min., China
This is about the inheritance of traditional craft of sword-making by craftsmen.

Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/the-road-of-inheritance-review

WORLD WAR II: THE SHIPWRECKS OF TRUK LAGOON, 45min., Germany
Directed by Christian Wehrle
“World War II: The Shipwrecks of Truk Lagoon” is a 45-minute documentary that dives into the haunting underwater world of Chuuk Lagoon, a site of immense historical and ecological significance. Once a formidable fortress for the Japanese Imperial Navy during World War II, this tranquil Pacific lagoon now cradles a ghostly fleet of sunken warships and aircraft, remnants of the devastating Operation Hailstone. Through a blend of captivating underwater footage, historical insights, and expert interviews, the documentary unveils the stories of these submerged relics. It explores the ecological transformation of these wrecks into vibrant marine habitats, while also pondering the ethical considerations of diving in this underwater graveyard. The film invites viewers on a reflective journey, intertwining the lagoon’s war-torn past with its present status as a unique sanctuary for marine life, leaving a lasting impression of the intricate ties between history, humanity, and the natural world.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555290403495

Watch the Audience Feedback Video:
https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/world-war-ii-the-shipwrecks-of-truk-lagoon-review

Feature Film Review: IMPACT. Australian Sports Documentary

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Synopsis:

“IMPACT” is a film that tells the powerful story of two skydivers, Mark Lucchiari and Ben Lucock, and their journey to recovery after a near-fatal accident.

Project Links

Directed by Patrick Dunne

Review by Victoria Angelique

The documentary film, IMPACT, is a harrowing and inspirational tale when fate is intermingled with destiny. The filmmakers expertly craft the story of Ben and Lucch in a way the captures the attention of the viewer from the very first frame in a way that piques curiosity by diving straight into the full story of what led up to the accident and the steps both men had to overcome in order to enjoy skydiving without fear. 

The interview style filming combined with the camera footage from the skydivers, really paints a reflective picture of who Ben and Lucch are as men in their community and home life. The way their loved ones and friends speak of them make it clear they are role models to not only their own families, but are also influential in their friends’ lives. The fact that not only is skydiving made to seem fun, but the technical aspects are discussed is a major plus as the filmmakers clearly realized not everyone who could relate to this story and enjoy it might not be skydivers. 

The score helps propel the story, going from inspirational as Ben and Lucch describe their childhoods in a way that shows they were raised during a different time period that led to their sense of adventure. The music changes to invoke emotions of fear during the footage of the accident, making the audience feel for both men as if they were the ones living through and witnessing the impact. The emotions invoked as Ben reflects is coupled with the somber notes as he delves into the importance of men’s mental health, something that helps him get closer with Lucch as they bond over express their feelings and cause tears to well up in the eyes of the viewer. The fact that it took an outsider to make them speak up, really shows how men are taught to hold everything in as a way of being strong when finally telling their families and friends what was going on is the true strength. 

This film, IMPACT, is truly an award winning documentary. It evokes a rollercoaster of emotions from joy to fear, with a few tears being shed before ending in a way that is inspirational by showing Ben and Lucch skydiving again after such a terrifying event. The two men were able to overcome the tragedy by bonding over something that seems taboo for men to talk about, their own mental health and for both men, it’s quite fortunate for their families and friends that they did begin talking so that Ben and Lucch could continue to lead their community. 

Short Film Review: SWAMPS. 1 minute Animation

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SWAMPS, 1min., Canada

Directed by David Convery

Bello takes a mystery trip through the wood wide web and lands in a swamp – nature’s water treatment plants.

Future Chicken Home

https://www.instagram.com/futurechickenofficial/

Review by Victoria Angelique:

SWAMPS is a short narrative that is aimed at children and invokes feelings of nostalgia as it is reminiscent of the educational commercials in between shows back when there were still Saturday morning cartoons. It keeps the attention of children with a familiar character, a mushroom named Bello, while being short enough so that the information can be retained rather than forgotten. 

The dialogue makes it clear that this is part of a series of shorts following Bello around as they explain the scientific reasoning behind different bodies of water. This particular short depicts SWAMPS, hence the title. It even includes body humor that children enjoy to explain the odor of swamplands in a way that would get little giggles out of the viewers. 

The animation style is mixed with live shots of not only the swamps, but the animals that reside in the murky waters. It combines animated particles to explain why the swamp stinks. Sound is combined with the two visual styles to explain the sounds of the body of water, using the buzzing of the many insects even though it doesn’t go into what type of insects live near swamps. This is probably to keep the interest of children as many would never visit a swamp if they knew how many mosquitoes called the area home. 

The film, SWAMPS, feels like a short that entire families would enjoy. It would educate children in a wholesome way while bringing back fond memories of childhood for the parents watching the animated short. Children would love Bello, which would promote parents searching online for more of the shorts starring the character to broaden their children’s scientific education. 

Filmmaker Podcast EP. 1151: Sonja Grace (SPIRIT TRAVELER: Looking into the Past for a Better Future)

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Interview by Matthew Toffolo

Mystic Sonja Grace looks at the breaking point of two ancient cultures on opposite sides of the world and how their history can help us today. Her ability to Spirit Travel back in time gives a new perspective on the Hopi Indians from Northern Arizona and the Celtic people of England, Ireland, and Scotland. She examines why circular chambers like kivas and stone circles such as Stonehenge were built, the portals that are marked by these sites and the Demi Gods and aliens who influenced them. From the ancient past Sonja brings back hope for the future.

https://sonjagrace.com/

https://www.facebook.com/spiritualpsychicsonjagrace

https://instagram.com/therealsonjagrace

LISTEN to podcast:

On ITunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/ep-1151-sonja-grace-spirit-traveler-looking-into-the/id1406973270?i=1000649173459

On the WILDsound Podcast site: http://www.wildsoundpodcast.com/the-film-podcast-by-wildsound/2024/3/14/ep-1151-sonja-grace-spirit-traveler-looking-into-the-past-for-a-better-future

Submit your film or screenplay to the WILDsound Festival today:
https://filmfreeway.com/WILDsoundFilmandWritingFestival

Short Film Review: DARB ZUBAIDA – A HIKING TRIP. Directed by Dunya Alatva

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“Darb Zubaydah” is an inspiring documentary film that chronicles the epic hiking trip of 150 individuals, led by retired Major General Abdul Aziz Al-Obaida, along the ancient pilgrims’ trail known as “Darb Zubaydah.” The adventure begins in the historic city of Faid and spans a distance of 96 kilometers. This captivating film not only captures the physical challenges and triumphs of the journey but delves into the rich history of the renowned Darb Zubaydah trail.

Review by Andie Karvelis:

Darb Zubaydah is an inspiring documentary film that chronicles the epic hiking trip of 150 individuals along the ancient pilgrims’ trail known as “Darb Zubaydah”. The director of photography and director Dunya Alatva did an amazing job bringing this vision to life. The cinematography alone is just spectacular and that is in part due to drone operator Mezyad Alatveh as well as camera operators Mohammad Ikinci and Mohannad Alshamari,


The 96 kilometer (that’s 59.6516 miles for those who are curious) journey was led by retired Major General Abdul Aziz Al-Obaida and the interviews conducted with him as well as various hikers was interesting and very moving. The film’s score was provided by Hichem Makni and it complimented every step of this adventure beautifully.

Watch the Audience Feedback Video: https://www.wildsound.ca/videos/darb-zubaida-a-hiking-trip-review