Mar. 24, 2021|USA|89 Min.|PG
Genre: Documentary
Description: A filmmaker with a deep passion for ocean life embarks on a mission to document the detrimental effects humans have on marine species. In the process, they uncover a shocking global conspiracy. While the documentary offers some valuable insights, it also includes a significant amount of sensationalism, which detracts from the real issue of overfishing. For instance, the practice of bottom trawling, although concerning, does not completely ravage the seabed as portrayed. If it did, rocks would consistently get caught in the nets and destroy them. Instead, trawlers navigate over rocky areas.
Additionally, the documentary links fishing to slavery and criminal activity, but this is not universally true. While such practices may occur in some regions, they are more indicative of broader societal issues rather than being exclusive to the fishing industry. It’s also worth noting that fishing boats operate in specific, licensed areas, making it less likely for them to engage in activities like drug or human trafficking, which require boats to travel freely between destinations.
The film also criticizes fish farming, yet it remains a more sustainable option compared to completely eliminating fish from diets, which isn’t a practical solution. Fish farming is more regulated, as it can be inspected, and feeds are commercially produced. Farmers are motivated to maintain healthy stocks to prevent disease outbreaks, which could devastate their operations.
Overall, the documentary leans heavily on sensationalism to attract viewers, which overshadows the genuine problem of overfishing and other marine conservation challenges.
Cast director: Ali Tabrizi
Cast actor: Ali Tabrizi, Sylvia Earle, Richard O’Barry, Paul de Gelder, Lucy Tabrizi, Jonathan Balcombe, George Monbiot, Michael Klaper
Original name: Seaspiracy