FOCUS EARTH: Eco-Conscious Indie Films

The Ojai Film Festival continues the tradition of focusing on environmental films with the 24th Anniversary Edition: FOCUS EARTH.

Common Ground

Saturday, November 11, 4 PM, Matilija Auditorium

2023, United States, Directors: Josh and Rebecca Tickell, Producers: Josh Tickell, Rebecca Tickell, and Eric Dillon; 101 min.
The highly anticipated follow up to the global hit Kiss the Ground, this documentary feature is the urgent but ultimately inspirational story of the pioneers of the “Regenerative Movement,” which combats climate change while cultivating enormous quantities of nutritionally dense food. Featuring appearances and narration by Laura Dern, Jason Momoa, Woody Harrelson, Rosario Dawson, and Ian Somerhalder.

Rigs to Reefs

Saturday, November 4, 4 PM, AC Gallery

2023, United States, Director and Producer: Callie Mejia; 12 min.
The environmental challenges of decommissioning oil rigs off the coast of California is a seemingly intractable problem mired in political gridlock. Decision Analysis is a project that seeks to resolve this complex issue through consensus building among stakeholders with opposing interests. This compelling documentary illustrates how a novel approach to political activism can bring about much-needed social change.

Uncle Bully’s Surf Skool

Friday, November 3, 10 AM, AC Gallery

2023, United States, Director: Leah Warshawski, Producers: Tamara Conniff and Leah Warshawski; 30 min.
When COVID-19 shuts down tourism in Hawaii, surf instructor Bull Cotter is pushed to the brink of economic catastrophe. He finds renewed purpose teaching local children from all walks of life how to read, write, and surf. From surf etiquette to treating the ocean with kindness and respect, Uncle Bully imparts valuable life lessons to his young students.