PRODUCTIONS
This 20+ minute documentary film explores the majestic blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus) that grace the waters off the Southern California coast, a population of the largest creatures ever living on Earth. Through stunning visuals and engaging storytelling, the film delves into the awe-inspiring beauty and immense size of these whales, captivating viewers with their graceful presence. It also reflects on their troubled history, from near-extinction due to whaling to the ongoing challenges they face today, including ship strikes, noise pollution, and climate change. As we follow these gentle giants through their seasonal migrations and enjoy never-before-seen footage of dozens of blue whales feeding in the Santa Barbara Channel in 2024, the film highlights their resilience and raises critical questions about their uncertain future in an increasingly fragile marine ecosystem.
BATTLE of the BLUES (2024)
SHOOT FOR THE STARS (2025)
In 2013, sea star wasting syndrome (SSWS) began devastating sea star populations along the west coast of North America, with sunflower stars (Pycnopodia helianthoides) becoming locally extinct in the shallow coastal waters where they served as a keystone predator, protecting kelp forests from overgrazing by urchins. Since then, many complex kelp forest ecosystems have become low-biodiversity urchin barrens. In collaboration with universities, aquariums, and research laboratories, Sunflower Star Laboratory aims to develop methods and mobilize resources to grow sunflower stars at the scale needed for recovery.
IN PRODUCTION
WHALES IN A CHANGING OCEAN (2026)
The Santa Barbara Channel acts as a microcosm for the vastness of our planet's oceans. Temperature variations change from year to year, currents shift, and whale migrations vary as prey abundances are dynamic. As our Oceans change, so too does its largest inhabitants. Learn from scientists, whale watchers, and ocean lovers through the lens of blue, gray, and humpback whales and what their presence might tell us about our oceans.
In partnership with the Santa Barbara Channel Whale Heritage Area
LION CALL (WORKING TITLE)
How does nature help us navigate loss?
For Mark Girardeau, the answer lies in the rugged landscapes of Southern California's Santa Ana Mountains. After the death of his father, Mark seeks solace in the outdoors, turning to camera trapping to capture intimate glimpses of the wildlife living just beyond Orange County's suburbs. Through this pursuit, he finds himself drawn to the mountain lion—an elusive and often misunderstood predator fighting to survive in an increasingly fragmented landscape. Through his shared love of adventure and the outdoors, Mark aims to educate his local community on the intricacies of thriving amongst urban wildlife.
CALIFORNIA SEASONS
The coast of California is home to an incredible array of marine species. From the largest animal the world has ever known, the blue whale, to pods of common dolphins stretching across the entire seascape, California’s waters are full of surprises. Captivating migrations, epic battles, and tender moments fill the sea with endless commotion 🌊