Filmmaker Q&A: Jordan Plotsky,"Home for Hawksbill"

In his film "Home for Hawksbill" Jordan Plotsky uncovers the amazing story of three rival tribes cooperating to save the turtles they had hunted to near extinction. Sacrificing their own livelihoods the people of the Arnavon Islands are helping this ancient species make a come back and are creating a model of conservation for communities all over the world. Catch "Home for Hawksbill" Sunday March 13th at 10 am as part of Program 10. Click here for tickets.

Filmmaker Bio:

Jordan Plotsky has a passion for wildlife and wilderness. Since 1998, he has been producing films and television on subjects ranging from sea turtles to bison, and archaeology to culture change. He has bushwhacked through the jungles of Papua New Guinea and shuffled through the snows of Yellowstone to capture the world’s beauty and drama. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Teledramatic Arts and Technologies from California State University Monterey Bay, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Natural History Filmmaking and Communication from the University of Otago. He is married and lives in Santa Cruz, California.

What is your summary for the film?

The Hawksbill turtle has been swimming in the southern oceans since the time of the dinosaurs. But now over-fishing has brought the Hawksbill to the brink of extinction. One of the turtle’s last stands is the Arnavon Islands, three small islets nestled in a far corner of the Solomon Islands. Even here their survival is at risk, as three rival tribes hunt the hawksbill to the breaking point. “Home for Hawksbill” tells the remarkable story of how these rival tribes overcame cultural conflicts and disputes over land ownership to protect the islands and save the turtles. Success in the Arnavons has inspired other communities, and is now a model for conservation across the globe.

What inspired you to make this film?

In a world of environmental challenges and degradation, I think it's critically important to tell stories of hope. This is an inspiring story of peace through conservation and the survival of an ancient species.

What were the biggest challenges in making the film?

Short shooting schedule and language gap

What message do you want viewers to take away from your film?

People around the world are doing important work and there are lessons for all of us.

What was the most enjoyable part of making the film?

Being on location and meeting the locals.

What was the most memorable moment in the film?

Watching hatchlings race to the sea.