International Ocean Film Tour comes to Antwerp on 27 April

For one night only, the International Ocean Film Tour will captivate audiences in Belgium with the latest and best feature and short movies inspired by a deep love and respect for the sea.

The ocean-themed films from around the globe present powerful stories of inspiring individuals. They feature compelling cinematography, complete with awe-inspiring underwater scenes and fast-paced wave sequences taken from unbelievable vantage points.

On the programme of the 2023 edition of this popular series are six films. Facing Monsters Inner Demons and External Forces, directed by Bentley Dean, follows Australian ‘slab wave’ surfer Kerby Brown and his affinity for the ocean that runs as deep as his love for his family. As Brown attempts to be the first surfer to ride a ferocious slab wave deep in the southern ocean, we discover the fear, addictions and family bonds that drive his ambition.

In an emotional and revealing journey, The Power of Activism shines a positive new light on a group of young spirited female activists who are taking risks to change future thinking of governments and major companies. The documentary by Steve Pasvolsky is an emotional journey from Byron Bay in Australia to Antarctica, Indonesia and Pakistan, exploring shark conservation, indigenous practices, intensive farming and plastic pollution.

George and the Whales is a documentary portrait by Nessim Stevenson of a Tongan whale-watching guide and the humpback whales that spend their summers in the warm waters around the Pacific islands of Vava'u. It aims to reflect on the tranquility and connection with the ocean enjoyed by some of it's largest inhabitants.

Due to overfishing, Gambia is running out of fish. In Stolen Fish, we learn about the Chinese fishmeal factories that process the sea produce into animal feed. Director Malgorzata Juszczak recounts the stories of fishermen Paul and Abou and fish seller Mariam to create an intimate frame for a story about neo-colonial development in West Africa and the compulsion to look for a better life in Europe.

Surfing films are not restricted to oceans. No Limits is a short film recounting the extraordinary story of 17-year-old Ben Neumann and how he has playfully overcome supposed obstacles and limits by surfing the Munich Eisbach wave.

Meanwhile, Sweet Adventure is a high-production scripted surfing film by South African Peter Hamblin. Featuring an all-star cast, it’s a movie about adventure as well as travel, friendship, great waves and the things that really matter in life.

International Ocean Film Tour
27 April, 19.30
Zuiderpershuis
Frankrijklei 109
Antwerp. Sorry! Our prize giveaway has now closed and the winners have been notified.