As a followup on his impactful 2006 documentary, Rob Stewart takes his team back out in Sharkwater Extinction to continue documenting illegal shark hunting practices occurring around the world. The footage they capture is appalling, and justifies the need to champion this cause that Rob was passionate about.

Sadly, Rob lost his life during production in a diving accident. However, Sharkwater Extinction generally embodies the spirit of what Rob was trying to accomplish while demonstrating how beautiful and elegant sharks are. In fact, the film is at its best when it’s under water. Stunning slow motion and close up shots of sharks are the types of visuals that make Sharkwater Extinction stand out.

The feature ends with a memorial for the Canadian filmmaker. It’s a heartfelt and moving sequence, until the very last moments of the film which are spent on shaming Rob’s instructor for his death. It’s a last minute stab that, for me, concludes the movie on an off-key and bitter note.

Regardless, Rob spent much of his life trying to preserve sharks and generate profound awareness for their plight. Sharkwater Extinction is a worthy presentation for preserving his own legacy and generating profound awareness for his mission.

Acting and Casting - 2 | Visual Effects and Editing - 2 | Story and Message - 2 | Entertainment Value - 1 | Music Score and Soundtrack - 1 | Reviewer's Preference - 1 | What does this mean?