HOLLYWOOD, CA – JULY 10: (L to R) Richard Ladkani, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jane Goodall, Walter Köhler and Carolyn Bernstein attend National Geographic Documentary Films’ SEA OF SHADOWS Los Angeles Premiere at NeueHouse on July 10, 2019 in Hollywood, California.
Photo by Vivien Killilea/Getty Images for National Geographic
On Wednesday, July 10, National Geographic Documentary Films’ “Sea of Shadows” had its Los Angeles premiere at the NeueHouse in Hollywood. More than 400 guests attended the event, including an extensive list of film influencers and conservation groups. The filmmakers and film subjects were joined by the iconic conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall and executive producer Leonardo DiCaprio.
Director Richard Ladkani introduced the film to a packed house alongside Dr. Goodall, a close friend and the subject of his 2010 documentary “Jane’s Journey.” Ladkani acknowledged Dr. Goodall for inspiring him to create films like “Sea of Shadows” that can make a positive difference in the world and reiterated that despite the dire situation the critically endangered vaquita is in, there is still hope to save the species.
Following the screening, Ladkani returned to the stage to recognize the real-life heroes from the film who have risked their lives for the cause: Andrea Crosta, executive director and co-founder of Earth League International; Carlos Loret de Mola, investigative journalist and TV host; Dr. Cynthia Smith, program manager, Vaquita CPR; and Jack Hutton, drone operator for Sea Shepherd.
“Sea of Shadows” opened in theaters on Friday, July 12 in New York City and Los Angeles to fantastic reviews. The New York Times named it a Critic’s Pick and the Los Angeles Times described it as a “chilling real-life criminal thriller” and a “purposeful, impressive work.” Awards Daily also praised the film, describing it as “a gripping watch.”
The powerful documentary follows a team of dedicated scientists, high-tech conservationists, investigative journalists and courageous undercover agents as well as the Mexican Navy as they put their lives on the line to save the world’s most elusive and endangered whale species, the vaquita porpoise, which is threated by illegal fishing and trafficking.
Visit seaofshadows.film to find a screening near you and to learn how you can help save the vaquita.