The documentary “Ocean with David Attenborough” explores the critical role of oceans in sustaining life on Earth, examines growing threats to marine ecosystems, and highlights the ocean’s capacity to recover when protected.
On Monday, June 8, a free public screening of National Geographic’s award-winning documentary will be shown at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay as part of its “Cinema Under the Stars” series — and to celebrate World Oceans Day.
The resort will once again transform Fort Alexander into an outdoor cinema overlooking Hanalei Bay. Attendees can enjoy Hawaiian Salted Popcorn and pizza from Carabella’s Pizza food truck.
“It will be a World Oceans Day cookout!” said Director of Culinary Pete Ghione.
The event benefits Fish Pono, a marine conservation initiative affiliated with the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa that promotes sustainable fishing practices through a network of community ambassadors across the island.
“Every sandwich, shave ice, and hot dog enjoyed will contribute to keeping our nearshore fisheries thriving and balanced,” Ghione said.
Before the film, attendees will hear from Dr. Alan Friedlander, Hui Makaʻāinana o Makana Executive Director Presley Wann, and Hanalei Watershed Hui Executive Director Makaʻala Kaʻaumoana. The three respected leaders in marine science will discuss ocean stewardship, cultural connection, and how local communities can help shape conservation efforts in a talk-story panel.
Friedlander, who has spent more than three decades studying Kauaʻiʻs North Shore waters, said: “It’s my favorite place in Hawaiʻi. It’s one of the most unique places on Earth.”
For Friedlander, who recently retired as chief scientist of National Geographic’s Pristine Seas Initiative after leading expeditions from the Arctic to the tropics, the film’s message is both urgent and hopeful.
“The whole arc of the story is how important the oceans are, what we’ve done to them, and then it comes full circle and talks about some of the bright spots,” he said. “One of those bright spots is Hawaiʻi.”
Friedlander’s screening appearance comes just days after he traveled to Washington, D.C., to testify against legislation that could open the Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument to commercial fishing.
“These are the last wild places in the ocean,” Friedlander said. “Once you open these places up to even a little bit of fishing, it disturbs the entire ecosystem.”
Friedlander continued, “The oceans provide half the oxygen people breathe and provides protein for billions of people around the world.
“It’s the greatest treasure trove of biodiversity on the planet, and so it absorbs 50 times more carbon than the rainforests,” Friedlander said. “So, without healthy oceans, we wouldn’t be here.”
Friedlander added that he also supported the film with footage and scientific contributions gathered during his National Geographic expeditions worldwide.
“At 100 years old, Attenborough remains one of the most recognizable voices in conservation,” Friedlander said. “I hope the film will inspire viewers to see the ocean not simply as scenery, but as a living system that connects everyone.”
On Tuesday, June 9, Friedlander will be at 1 Kitchen from 9 to 10:30 a.m. for an engaging breakfast and talk-story session. People can learn more about his passion and excitement for ocean conservation, his time in the Peace Corps, and the more than 12,000 hours he has spent underwater studying the marine ecosystem.
“I am excited to share more of my perspective with people and to talk more about the ocean and how important it is, and just how grateful I am to be able to have had this career,” he said. “But also just share my knowledge and that inspiration.”
For more information about breakfast and talk-story with Friedlander at 1 Kitchen or Monday’s event, click here.
