Synopsis
The Canary Islands are home to a remarkable diversity of sharks and rays in the Atlantic. However, many of these species face growing threats and significant conservation challenges. This 30-minute documentary short follows the work carried out by the Latitud Azul Association to improve knowledge and protection of elasmobranchs in the archipelago.
Read the full synopsis Show less
Through a journey across Canary Island waters, the film shows how scientists, fishers, maritime industry professionals, science communicators, activists, public administrations and citizens take part in different initiatives aimed at conserving these species. From scientific research to outreach and collaboration with different sectors, the documentary offers a view of the efforts under way to better understand the ecological role of sharks and rays and to promote their protection.
The joint work of these actors has helped expand knowledge of elasmobranchs in the Canary Islands, including the identification and recognition of 22 ISRAs (Important Shark and Ray Areas) in the archipelago. These areas have been internationally recognised for their relevance to the life cycle of different shark and ray species, and they highlight the importance of Canary Island waters for their conservation.
Beyond the scientific results, the film focuses on the people involved in these processes, exploring the motivations, experiences and challenges of those who work in marine research, management and conservation. Through their testimonies, the documentary shows how collaboration between different sectors can help tackle complex challenges related to protecting biodiversity.
Produced by the Latitud Azul Association, the documentary was born from a collaboration between the organisation and José Hernández, the film's director and founder of Minsk. The script was developed jointly, combining Latitud Azul's scientific knowledge and field experience with José Hernández's narrative and cinematic vision, with the aim of bringing the reality of the Canary Islands' sharks and rays closer to the public.
The film is distributed by José María Moreno-Tapia, director of Kinema Producciones, whose experience in documentary cinema will help bring this project to new audiences and screening venues.
