The Legacy of Filmmaker Rob Stewart
Examining the two most well known films of activist Rob Stewart and their impact on the public
At a time when students are becoming more aware of social issues, the works of filmmakers who have dedicated their careers to such cases have become increasingly relevant. One such filmmaker is the late Rob Stewart, a Canadian filmmaker and activist who dedicated his craft to reporting on the delicate balance of natural ecosystems and the dangers that threatened it. His most well-known films, Sharkwater (2006) and Revolution (2013) have impacts that can still be felt even years after their release.
Rob Stewart was born and raised in Toronto, where he found his passion for underwater photography when he was still a young teenager. After becoming a scuba instructor and graduating with a BSc in Biology, he went on to travel across the world as the lead photographer for the Canadian Wildlife Federation, a non-profit organization committed to protecting Canada’s wildlife and natural environments. Stewart spent many hours documenting the conditions of the most remote underwater locations on the planet, with his pictures being highly desired by the media worldwide.
During a particular job in the Galapagos Islands, Stewart found instances of illegal fishing that were haphazardly killing sharks inside the reserve. He attempted to spread awareness through the press but after a discouraging response from the public, he decided to take matters into his own hands by producing a film about the effects of shark hunting. Stewart went on an incredible expedition that took him to 12 countries over the course of 4 years, resulting in the release of Sharkwater in 2006.
Sharkwater (2006) was a massive success and successfully changed the public perception of sharks, who had long been misunderstood by the general population. People used to see sharks as dangerous killing machines due to films like Jaws (1975) but Stewart’s documentary opposed that narrative by depicting them as a vital species in underwater ecosystems and victims of illegal fishing operations. The film showed the sheer effect of shark finning, which was a multi-billion industry at the time due to demand for shark fin soup. Stewart took great risks to reveal these illegal practices to the public, as he consistently challenged poachers and other illicit groups. For many viewers, Sharkwater (2006) was their first real introduction to sharks as intricate animals in need of conservation. The documentary set off a massive shift, as its release caused multiple countries to enforce bans on shark finning and other illegal fishing operations.
After Sharwater’s resounding critical and commercial success, Stewart got to work on a follow-up, Revolution (2013), which expands on the premise of Sharkwater (2006), examining greater environmental issues such as climate change, ocean acidification and deforestation. Much of the film was shaped by various conversations Stewart had with young activists across the globe. While the film was thoroughly scientific in its detail, it was Stewart’s hopeful attitude that compelled the audience. Stewart understood that the ones leading environmental movements were often students who were confident in challenging political leaders or massive corporations. In making the film, Stewart journeyed through continents and chronicled grassroots movements, emphasizing that global change starts with local action first. To Stewart, Revolution (2013) wasn’t just a documentary, but a call to arms, as he personally believed that humanity’s fate relied on people understanding their link with nature and working to protect it. By connecting the state of the environment to the future of humanity itself, Stewart presented environmental conservation not as a small issue but a matter of survival.
Over a decade after its release, Revolution (2013) and its predecessor Sharkwater (2006) continue to be relevant today. Many students see Stewart’s work as a source of inspiration, with his talent for conveying scientific information in an engaging way showing how communication is just as vital as research when it comes to shifting the public perception. Both movies are typically shown in schools as an example of how art can have tangible positive impacts on the world, demonstrating that creativity can be a strong force for social change. Additionally, Stewart’s personal history also strikes a chord with students, as he was not just some powerful figure, but a person who did what he loved and used his talents as a way to advocate for change. While filming the sequel to Sharkwater in early 2017, titled Sharkwater: Extinction, Stewart tragically died when he drowned while diving just south of the Florida Keys. The film was then completed by editor Nick Hector and director Sturla Gunnarsson and released at the 2018 Toronto International Film Festival while serving as a tribute to the late Stewart. Although he passed over 8 years ago, his legacy continues to live on through the many students who were inspired to carry on fighting for environmental protection and social change.
