SLO Film Festival Recap

Screen One at the Palm Theater was abuzz on Sunday afternoon for the screening of three environmental short films hosted by Ecologistics for the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival.  Board member, Kellie Conn, MC’d the event. She innformed viewers about Ecologistics’ educational and fiscal sponsorship programs. The first film, Ella, el agua, from Argentina, featured professional diver and underwater photographer Laura Babahekian. Whose work brings images from the underwater world to the public.  Laura works in mostly Antarctic regions, bringing a refreshing light to cold water oceans. A nice change from the usual tropical images we see.  The second film, No One is An Island, is an animated film drawn by artist James McKay. The film explored how the world can be preserved for his children.

The highlight of the afternoon was El Pulmo, which told the story of the establishment of the most successful marine sanctuary in the world in Cabo Pulmo, Mexico.  The photography in the film both above and below the water was incredible.  Best of all the gentleman featured in the film, Mario Castro, was present along with the filmmakers for a Q&A after the film.  Working through a translator, Mr. Castro answered questions from the audience about the making of the film and what is currently happening at the marine sanctuary. His insight was refreshing at the marine sanctuaryis being threatened by developments from big tourism companies.

The Film Festival was a phenomenal representation of how big strides are being taken to preserve our environment. Thank you to everyone who attended our screening and made donations at the door to support Ecologistics.