What’s On: Ocean Film Festival, Regent Centre Christchurch and Lighthouse Poole

A FESTIVAL of ocean-themed films will make a splash at Christchurch’s Regent Centre and the Lighthouse in Poole this autumn.

The Ocean Film Festival was created in Australia to inspire people to enjoy, explore and protect our oceans, and this is the 11th year it has toured in the UK. This year’s festival will feature a new collection of films featuring wild seafaring voyages and fascinating marine life up close on the big screen.

Festival founder and CEO Jemima Robinson said: “The Ocean Film Festival Tour is a platform for storytelling that brings the beauty, challenges and importance of our oceans to audiences around the world.”

Featured films include Ice Maiden, which follows adventurer Lisa Blair on a terrifying voyage as she aims to become the first woman to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around Antarctica. Meanwhile The Whale Song delves into enigmatic communication of humpback whales including a thrilling revelation – these majestic creatures ingeniously remix each other’s tunes, passing melodies around the world’s oceans.

California-based artist Tess Felix is also highlighted as she uses plastic debris to create mosaic portraits as a vibrant response to the perilous state of our oceans. Exploring serious issues with imagination and humour, Tess aims to spark curiosity and imagination.

Jemima added: “This year’s line-up is testament to the incredible adventures, talents and environmental messages that resonate with us all. We are thrilled to share these inspiring films and celebrate the magic of the ocean.”

The UK tour is presented by the Marine Conservation Society and by PADI, the world’s largest diver organisation.

The Ocean Film Festival will be at Lighthouse Poole on Sunday 21st September and The Regent Centre in Christchurch on 8th October and 21st November. For more information and tickets visit www.oceanfilmfestival.co.uk