We live in a time where the conservation of our oceans & seas has become critical. We must act now, but sometimes it can be difficult to know where to start, or how to inspire people to change. Over-fishing, climate change, animal abuse, pollution, habitat destruction and complacency are all contributing to the death of marine life. Fortunately, we also live in a time where information can be shared quickly all around the world. We live in an age where very talented and brave (sometimes risking attack or imprisonment) marine conservation activists can make a film and get it seen by millions, in the hope that it will change our attitudes and behaviours.

Here is our list of MUST-SEE films on marine conservation. Some are not easy to watch. Some will leave you in tears. They are all excellent. Let us know if we have missed any that you think we should watch and add to the list!

Blackfish

Blackfish tells the story of Tilikum, a performing killer whale that killed several people while in captivity. Along the way, director-producer Gabriela Cowperthwaite compiles shocking footage and emotional interviews to explore the creature’s extraordinary nature, the species’ cruel treatment in captivity, the lives and losses of the trainers and the pressures brought to bear by the multi-billion dollar sea-park industry. Blackfish is a film that has had a huge global impact.

For more information about Blackfish click here

The Cove

Academy Award® Winner for Best Documentary of 2009, THE COVE follows an elite team of activists, filmmakers and freedivers as they embark on a covert mission to penetrate a remote and hidden cove in Taiji, Japan, shining a light on a dark and deadly secret. Utilizing state-of-the-art techniques, including hidden microphones and cameras in fake rocks, the team uncovers how this small seaside village serves as a horrifying microcosm of massive ecological crimes happening worldwide. The result is a provocative mix of investigative journalism, eco-adventure and arresting imagery, adding up to an unforgettable story that has inspired audiences worldwide to action.

For more information about The Cove click here

Racing Extinction

Utilizing state-of-the-art equipment, Oscar-winner Louis Psihoyos (The Cove) assembles a team of artists and activists intent on showing the world never-before-seen images that expose issues of endangered species and mass extinction.

For more information about Racing Extinction click here

The End of the Line

Imagine an ocean without fish. Imagine your meals without seafood. Imagine the global consequences. This is the future if we do not stop, think and act.

Directed by Rupert Murray, The End Of The Line is the world’s first major documentary about the devastating effect of overfishing and examines the imminent extinction of bluefin tuna, brought on by increasing western demand for sushi; the impact on marine life resulting in huge overpopulation of jellyfish; and the profound implications of a future world with no fish that would bring certain mass starvation.

Filmed over two years, The End of the Line follows the investigative reporter Charles Clover as he confronts politicians and celebrity restaurateurs, who exhibit little regard for the damage they are doing to the oceans.

For more information about The End of the Line click here

Mission Blue

“Mission Blue is an initiative of the Sylvia Earle Alliance to ignite public support for the protection of Hope Spots – special places that are vital to the health of the ocean – through the creation of a global network of marine protected areas to safeguard 20% of the ocean by 2020.”

For more information about Mission Blue click here

The Last Ocean

The Ross Sea, Antarctica is the most pristine stretch of ocean on Earth. A vast, frozen landscape that teems with life – whales, seals and penguins carving out a place on the very edge of existence. But an international fishing fleet has recently found its way to the Ross Sea. It is targeting Antarctic toothfish, sold as Chilean sea bass in up-market restaurants around the world. The catch is so lucrative it is known as white gold. Ecologist David Ainley knows that unless fishing is stopped the natural balance of the Ross Sea will be lost forever.

For more information about The Last Ocean click here

A Plastic Ocean

Plastic Oceans has assembled a team of the world’s top scientists and leading film makers to produce a powerful, high-end documentary in high definition ‘A Plastic Ocean’.  This will play a key role in sending out the message to the world. Accompanied by scientists, conservationists and engineers, the film follows the journey of two explorers as they travel to some of the most remote parts of the world, documenting the environmental issues associated with plastic pollution and its impact on the environment, ecosystems and human health.

For more information about A Plastic Ocean click here

Each of these films is thought-provoking. They have been made to educate their audiences about the issues and challenges that face marine life. We hope that each one will encourage a change in behaviour, policy and ultimately make a difference.

Let us know of any more movies that you think should be included in the list and that Scubaverse readers should watch.