Origin of author: Germany.
Place of recording: Greece.
Length: 11 minutes.
Award: DIARIO VASCO Award for best journalistic work.
"The Silent Invasion of the Mediterranean Sea", directed by Anne Weigel and Philip Reinhold from Germany, is a captivating documentary that sheds light on the threat posed by new invasive species to the Mediterranean ecosystem. Through visually stunning narrative and revealing interviews, the documentary explores the disruptions these invaders are causing, endangering the region's native species and biodiversity.
The film features Arne, a German freediver, and Dimitrios, a local diving legend, who become the protagonists of this story. Arne demonstrates simple and sustainable methods for the preparation of the invasive species, the lionfish, as an alternative to overfished species such as sea bass and grouper. The film highlights the global problem of overfishing and the urgent need to protect marine areas in the Mediterranean.
Filmed between June 2022 and May 2023, the film documents the significant spread of invasive species, which displace and negatively affect marine life. However, amidst the challenges, "The Silent Invasion of the Mediterranean Sea" also uncovers hope in the concept of marine protected areas. These marine sanctuaries emerge as a crucial solution to mitigate the impact of invasive species and preserve the diversity of marine life in the Mediterranean.
This documentary is a call to action, highlighting the pressing need to address the threat of invasive species and protect our seas and oceans. Through its focus on lionfish as a sustainable food source and the importance of marine protected areas, the film shows us a path towards conservation and balance in the Mediterranean. "The Silent Invasion of the Mediterranean Sea" inspires us to take action to protect our valuable marine heritage and promote more responsible practices in fisheries and marine conservation.