Film Lens
Anote's Ark is a documentary that focuses on the impact of climate change on Kiribati, an island nation facing the threat of disappearing underwater due to rising sea levels. The film features Anote Tong, the former president of Kiribati, who actively lobbied for international action against climate change. It also follows Sermary Tiare, an I-Kiribati woman who chooses to emigrate to New Zealand to protect her family from the impending crisis.
The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2018 and later at the Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival. It faced criticism from the current government of Kiribati, which accused the director, Matthieu Rytz, of not adhering to journalistic ethics. Rytz defended his work, claiming the criticism was part of a broader effort to suppress press freedom in Kiribati.
Why Watch
- •Meet Anote Tong, a climate activist and former president.
- •Follow Sermary Tiare's story of emigration to New Zealand.
- •See the impact of climate change on Kiribati's future.
Did You Know
•Kiribati is projected to be one of the first nations to disappear underwater.
•Anote Tong was the president of Kiribati during the film's production.
•The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January 2018.
•Rytz received a Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Cinematography.
Perfect For
Climate change awarenessPacific island culturesEnvironmental activism