Picture for event

Wildscreen Films

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Mon 31 May 2004 // 15:00

WILDSCREEN FILMS
(Mon 31st / 3pm / £4/3)

A selection in collaboration with Wildscreen, Bristol. :
People of the Sea (1998) BBC / National Geographic
At the Edge of the Sea (1998) BBC Natural World
The Whale Hunters (2002) Jeremy Bristow, BBC

People of the Sea (1998) BBC / National Geographic
Told from the heart by a Newfoundlander, this poignant story explores the fragile balance of life in the north-west Atlantic. Fertile ocean currents once sustained vast concentrations of fish, seabirds and whales. Over the centuries, people settled here, making a living from the sea and its wildlife - living in harmony with a bountiful ocean - and supplying the world with salt cod. But now, on the 500th anniversary of this province, there is a crisis, caused by overfishing and shifting sea temperatures. A crisis which threatens both the future of the wildlife and the livelihood of the people of Newfoundland.
At the Edge of the Sea (1998) BBC Natural World
This is a film about the life that thrives amongst violent surf and the ever-changing landscape at the edge of the sea. Ruled by the tides and subject to the whims of weather, this kingdom between land and sea is one of the most inhospitable places on earth. Yet, fed by Pacific upwellings, the coastal waters of British Columbia provide one of the richest and most diverse habitats in the world. The film explores the complexities of this environment and describes how life has adapted to survive the rigours at the edge of the sea.
The Whale Hunters (2002) Jeremy Bristow, BBC
Of all the pro-whaling nations Japan is the most vilified. Why does Japan wish to promote whale hunting in the face of so much international criticism? This film is about how the emotive and contentious issue is seen in Japan, from both pro and anti whaling factions as well as the public at large. The filmmakers have gained unprecedented access to the men who are promulgating the campaign to win the backing of their own populace. We see how history, culture, science and resentment at foreign interference are merged to justify the fight to resume commercial whale hunting.