The Fundy Film Society

Eco-Pirate: The Story of Paul Watson

Eco-Pirate: The Story of Paul Watson

Premiering at the 2011 Hot Docs Film Festival, Eco-Pirate: The Story of Paul Watson is the fascinating first documentary feature by Canadian producer and director Trish Dolman. Crafting an epic tale of the birth of the modern environmental movement, Dolman charts the life and mission of controversial activist Paul Watson from his early participation and involvement in founding Greenpeace, to his current work as Captain of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society.

Through the use of archival footage, in-depth interviews with family members, colleagues and specialists in the field, as well as onsite footage as the Sea Shepherd team patrols the ocean, Dolman is able to provide a variety of unique perspectives and insight into this notorious and controversial figure. Part high-octane adventure, the film follows Watson and his crew as they hunt down what they see as the most lethal and serious law-breakers – the illegal poachers of the world. As the team tracks a Japanese whaling fleet in the vast expanse and stunning beauty of the Antarctic Ocean, Watson’s disputed and aggressive tactics are captured in an urgent attempt to save an endangered species and protect marine life for future generations.

Dolman’s film is a captivating character study of one of the most infamous and efficacious figures in the environmental landscape. Considered by some to be a celebrated hero, and others an environmental terrorist, Watson offers surprisingly candid and personal discourse regarding the nature of celebrity and his own egomania, to the necessity of media attention to further a cause. Love him or hate him, Watson’s mission is certain – the urgency with which we must act to save our planet and its oceans.