Join us for the live Closing Night Film Awards ceremony and a post-screening conversation with filmmakers Sarah Sharkey Pearce & Simon Schneider and Lummi Elder/Executive Producer Squil-le-he-le Raynell Morris. Synopsis: Resident Orca tells the story of Lolita, also known as Tokitae or Sk'aliCh'elh-tenaut, the last of the Southern Resident Killer Whales in captivity, who lived the majority of her life performing for visitors in a small tank at the Miami Seaquarium. Directors Sarah Sharkey Pearce and Simon Schneider introduce a passionate group of characters fighting for her freedom, following the development of an unusual partnership between members of the Lummi tribe and a rich philanthropist who is prepared to bankroll her release back into her natal waters. The film maintains a deeply emotional connection to the aging killer whale, questioning what is objectively in her best interest and who has the right to decide. *This film will be preceded by short film Pet Store (USA, 15min). Synopsis: Larry Wallach insists that exotic pet ownership is safe and ethical and anyone who disagrees should visit Sloth Encounters, his petting zoo next to a freeway on Long Island, to see for themselves.
Now in our 25th year, Planet in Focus is an environmental media arts organization with year-round programming. Our mandate is to produce cultural events that showcase engaging and artistic films that question, explore and tell stories about the world in which we live. We use film as a catalyst for public awareness, discussion and engagement on a broad range of environmental issues.