By Micaela Williamson
Jean-Michel Cousteau, son of ocean pioneer Jacques Cousteau, gives viewers a closer look at the secret world within the ocean in the new film “Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Secret Ocean 3D.” Through modern underwater filming techniques, the film features stunning cinematography and brings to life the colorful, vibrant underwater environments of the Bahamas, Fiji and Bimini. The true star of the show is the wide array of sea life including manta rays, eels, octopus, giant clams and lesser-known animals like spotted sea hares, Christmas Tree worms, arrow crabs and more. With its vibrant images, the message of the production is to inspire people of all ages and raise awareness for ocean conservation and better environmental practices.
“How can you protect what you do not fully understand?” director Jean-Michel Cousteau asks. “‘Secret Ocean 3D’ provides audiences with an intimate look at the secret world of some of the smallest animals in the sea and gives us reasons to fall in love, learn more and ultimately protect our water planet,” he adds.
Filmed over the course of three years, the film also includes famous marine biologist Holly Lohuis and is narrated by renowned oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle. “Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Secret Ocean 3D” opens to the public on March 20 at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and will run throughout the remainder of the year.
“The Smithsonian Institution is thrilled to welcome ‘Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Secret Ocean 3D’ to the Johnson IMAX Theater. This beautiful film will allow viewers to get up close and personal with some of the most obscure ocean creatures. It’s sure to excite audiences while providing a look into the importance of underwater ecosystems,” says Zarth Bertsch, director of the Theaters at Smithsonian Enterprises.
“Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Secret Ocean 3D” has a running time of 40 minutes and is recommended for all audiences. To purchase tickets and view showtimes, please visit si.edu/Imax/Movie/159.
- Courtesy of Tiffany Brown, Mamaratzy Photography
Micaela Williamson is a coauthor of local travel guide Kid Trips Northern Virginia, an extraordinary resource that provides descriptions, useful information and insider tips for hundreds of local destinations. Micaela is also an award-winning blogger who enjoys supporting area businesses and scouting out family-friendly venues with her two young sons.
