More than 100 people gathered at Luna Palace Cinema in Leederville for the Perth premiere of Ocean with David Attenborough. The event, hosted by the Minderoo Foundation, marked a significant occasion not only for the film’s message but also for celebrating Sir David Attenborough’s 99th birthday.
The Minderoo Foundation, a major backer of the film through its impact film fund, Minderoo Pictures, aims to raise awareness about the alarming state of the world’s oceans. The documentary highlights the devastating impacts of bottom trawling, coral bleaching, and rising ocean temperatures. Drawing on Attenborough’s seven-decade career, the film delivers a powerful message of hope: while the ocean is in crisis, recovery is still possible if we choose to act.
Minderoo Foundation’s Vision for Change
Minderoo Foundation co-founder Nicola Forrest addressed the audience, emphasizing the film’s potential to inspire change at a critical time for the world’s oceans and the communities they sustain. “It’s more than a documentary – it’s a wake-up call,” Ms. Forrest stated. “Long-form storytelling through film speaks to us in a unique way. It has the capacity to cut through, it can create movements for change and even trigger cultural shifts.”
The foundation’s involvement underscores its commitment to environmental issues, leveraging film as a medium to foster global awareness and action. This initiative aligns with their broader mission to tackle pressing challenges facing the planet.
Celebrating Attenborough’s Legacy
The premiere coincided with Sir David Attenborough’s 99th birthday, adding a layer of significance to the event. His lifelong dedication to nature and science has inspired countless individuals and organizations worldwide. Among those present was Tom Park, a cinematographer for the film who captured scenes at the Great Barrier Reef. Park expressed his admiration, saying, “For me, he’s been an idol for as long as I can remember, he’s inspired generations of us.”
Park added a personal touch to the celebration, humorously inviting Attenborough for a beer should he ever visit Australia. Such sentiments reflect the deep respect and affection held for Attenborough by those in the environmental and filmmaking communities.
Voices from the Environmental Frontline
Also attending the premiere was Jeff Hansen, managing director of Sea Shepherd Australia, an organization known for its direct-action approach to marine conservation. Hansen praised Attenborough, calling him “a bloody legend” for his unwavering commitment to environmental advocacy.
The presence of influential figures like Hansen highlights the documentary’s potential to galvanize action among environmental groups and the public. The film’s message resonates with ongoing efforts to protect marine ecosystems from human-induced threats.
Implications and the Path Forward
The release of Ocean with David Attenborough comes at a pivotal moment for global conservation efforts. As the impacts of climate change become increasingly evident, the film serves as both a warning and a call to action. By showcasing the beauty and fragility of marine environments, it aims to inspire viewers to support policies and practices that promote ocean health.
Looking ahead, the Minderoo Foundation and other stakeholders hope to leverage the documentary’s impact to drive meaningful change. Initiatives may include increased funding for marine research, stricter regulations on harmful fishing practices, and broader public engagement in conservation efforts.
As the world grapples with environmental challenges, the premiere of Attenborough’s latest work underscores the urgent need for collective action. By spotlighting the ocean’s plight and potential for recovery, the film encourages a global audience to take responsibility for the planet’s future.
