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UK Premiere. Follow Frances Ward, a "Seaweed Nerd," as she embarks on an ambitious kelp farming project off Canada’s west coast, discovering the potential of this miraculous organism along the way. Combining breathtaking underwater cinematography with a fun, quirky cast, the documentary delves into the remarkable surprises of this game-changing marine plant. Frances teams up with scientists, wild harvesters, and entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges and unlock the astonishing potential of kelp. As she coaxes a crop from the wild Pacific, Frances discovers the hope that seaweed might provide not only for our planet but also for her personally. The film features a unique and organic score by Jonathan Kawchuk, using the literal sounds of kelp harvested as bespoke instruments. SEND KELP! is a captivating exploration of how kelp farming could play a significant role in addressing environmental issues and transforming lives. (Blake McWilliam, Canada, 89 mins)

The screening will be followed by a live virtual Q&A with director Blake McWilliam and the film's protagonist Frances Ward.

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About the filmmaker:

Blake McWilliam is an award-winning Canadian director and producer based in Edmonton, Alberta. His work spans narrative, commercial, and music video formats, focusing on film aesthetics. His productions have been featured at leading international film festivals. SEND KELP! marks his directorial debut in documentary filmmaking.

About the guest speaker:

Frances Ward, a passionate kelp farmer and self-proclaimed "Seaweed Nerd," stars in the documentary SEND KELP! as she embarks on a mission to establish a kelp farm off the coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. With her infectious can-do attitude, Frances is committed to promoting sustainable kelp farming as a solution to environmental challenges like climate change and declining fish populations. Her journey has inspired many to explore the potential of this rapidly growing industry.

With short film:

Cuban Bees: The Organic Revolution

Discover Cuba's commitment to organic beekeeping, showcasing the island's unique practices and their impact on bees, agriculture, and the ecosystem. Hear from passionate beekeepers and farmers in Havana, with researcher Emma Shannon from the University of Glasgow offering a comparative view with Scotland. Part of a LandxSea collaboration with the Havana-Glasgow Film Festival. (Daniesky Acosta and Hugo Rivalta, Cuba/UK, 13 mins)

In English and Spanish with English subtitles.

Cuban Bees will be followed by a live onstage Q&A with director Daniesky Acosta.

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About the Filmmakers:

Daniesky Acosta, born in 1983 in rural eastern Cuba, moved to Havana in his teens, working on his family’s organic farm and studying digital design. Relocating to London in 2007, he graduated with a first-class degree in Media and Design from London Metropolitan University. Acosta has worked as a developer, designer, video editor, and event organiser. In 2020, he founded DaniFilms and directed documentaries on Cuba's response to COVID-19 and climate change, premiering at COP26.

Hugo Rivalta is a Cuban screenwriter, director, and novelist who splits his time between Havana and Glasgow. As co-director of the Havana-Glasgow Film Festival, he celebrates Cuban cinema and culture, highlighting the similarities between the two cities. Hugo's work includes the animated feature La Super. He actively promotes Cuban talent through workshops and events. He feels at home in both cities, appreciating Glasgow's warmth and character despite its cold climate.

This programme is rated 12A

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