Marine biologist Dr. Edie Widder goes on a journey to the ocean depths hoping to capture the phenomenon of bioluminescence like it’s never been seen on camera before, from director Tasha Van Zandt and the production company behind Fire of Love.
Marine biologist Dr. Edie Widder has spent a lifetime exploring the ocean depths, which contain endless secrets. She made headlines for devising the camera system that captured the first footage of a giant squid in its natural habitat. But her greatest passion is studying the occurrence of bioluminescence — the awe-inspiring phenomenon of underwater organisms that produce their own light.
Widder first witnessed it for herself on an expedition in the 1980s when she ventured into the ocean twilight zone below the reach of the sun. At the time, women in oceanography were scarce. The sexism was so prevalent that some chauvinistic boat crews considered it bad luck to have a woman at sea. Widder overcame countless obstacles to become renowned in her field and chart a path for the next generation.
Filmmaker Tasha Van Zandt tells that backstory while following Widder on a contemporary expedition that she hopes can be a breakthrough for bioluminescence research. She teams with OceanX to use the latest technology of submersible vessels with the goal of capturing bioluminescence on camera like it’s never been documented before.
The film reminds us that science is a practice of trial and error. It’s not enough to have a great theory. In order to prove it, you need institutional support, favourable weather, and a large helping of good luck. Widder has gone on plenty of expeditions that didn’t pan out. Her perseverance is a wonder to behold. And that’s not the only wonder we get to witness as we take this unforgettable journey at her side.
THOM POWERS
Screenings
Scotiabank 11
Scotiabank 5
Scotiabank 8
TIFF Lightbox 2