Crashing Waves, a 55-minute documentary
By: John Moore
Last updated: Thursday, 13 March 2025
Crashing Waves, a 55-minute documentary, tells the story of traditional fishers in southwestern India who brave towering waves stirred by monsoon winds and storms—both local and distant. Set against the backdrop of a changing Arabian Sea, this human drama unfolds as the ocean becomes increasingly unpredictable in a warming world. Yet, despite the dangers, these fishers must venture out to sea to earn their daily bread. In the end, it is fish that drives fishing.
Independently produced by André Movies and directed by John Bennet, the documentary was inspired by Sussex University's Forecasting with Fishers research. This initiative aimed to develop localised marine forecasts, helping fishers make informed decisions before heading out to sea. Key researchers included Filippo Osella, the project lead, known for his line, “Save one life, and it’s all worth it,” and Dom Kniveton, who continues to guide its future. The Sussex team featured Kate Howland, Pedram Rowhani, Netsanet Alamirew, Max Martin, Johnson Jament, Roopesh OB, and Visakh Madhusoodanan Subha. Yi Wang, Seb Oliver and Martin Todd provided scientific insights and advice. Alan Lester approved the initial funding, with Mike Collyer and Joe Alcamo supporting multiple rounds. Successive school heads, Buzz Harrison and Geert De Neve, offered overall support and visiting fellowships to local researchers. Forecasting with Fishers was supported by Sussex Innovation, Sussex Sustainability Research programme, several rounds of university research and impact funding, UKRI-GCRF, Royal Geographical Society, and the American Red Cross.
Watch Crashing Waves online
Crashing Waves - Apple TV (UK)
Watch Crashing Waves | Prime Video UK