A film on Biodiversity

Director Howard Hall is the creator of Under the Sea 3D. The film will be released only in IMAX theatres starting February 13, 2009.  

Under the Sea 3D discusses the effect of climate change on the oceans.

It is strongly predicted that there are very specific changes that the oceans will undergo because of increased carbon dioxide levels- some of those changes are already happening, while some others are not yet well-known. One reason for making this film was to show people how important it is to do something about climate change and carbon dioxide excess.

A large purpose of this film is to explain what goes on in the coral reef community, and what affects coral reefs. Some of these things are increasing water temperatures, increased carbon dioxide levels dissolved in the seawater, acidification of seawater and the loss of mangroves. The loss of these mangroves affects the siltation on the reef, increasing the amount of debris that washes off the islands and onto the reef. When mangroves are removed, the reefs don't have protection. There is a mangrove sequence in the film which is quite beautiful. The roots grow right out into the seawater and produce a habitat for a wide variety of animals that are really wonderful.

Once people see a myriad of beautiful sea animals, like the Flamboyant Cuttlefish or Weedy Sea Dragon, they're going to fall in love because not only are these creatures remarkably beautiful, but also have really interesting behaviors and personality, and it is heartbreaking to imagine that some of them are so threatened.

There are a lot of issues affecting coral reefs, and the animals that call it home. The development of islands, ocean shorelines and industries- especially in the the emerging economies, are all creating a huge impact. While there is a benefit to that kind of development, there is also a major benefit of having coral reefs around the world, and those beautiful sea animals out of danger.