Souls of the Vermilion Sea is a new half hour documentary from non-profit media company Wild Lens. The film tells the story behind the struggle to save the vaquita – the world’s most endangered marine mammal. This unique species of porpoise is found only in the northernmost waters of the Gulf of California in Mexico, and is being driven to extinction by a nefarious illegal wildlife trade. The swim bladder of a fish called the totoaba is worth tens of thousands of dollars in China, and the booming illegal fishery for this species has driven the vaquita frighteningly close to extinction. Souls of the Vermilion Sea chronicles the efforts of a select few dedicated individuals who have committed themselves to the protection of this unique species and its surrounding ecosystem. Breathtaking scenery, intimate conversations, and distinctive animation create a powerful and revealing film with the potential to influence change.

Souls of the Vermilion Sea

2017 US 29 min
Festival Year: 2018
Types: Documentary, Short
Topic: Freshwater & Oceans