Best of the Blue
Celebrating the Ocean Stories that Moved Us
Dive into the Best of the Blue
A special three part film showcase celebrating the extraordinary stories, people, and perspectives that connect us to the ocean. From the thrill of ocean sports and the wonder of marine life to powerful stories of conservation and resilience, each curated program brings together inspiring films that remind us of the ocean’s beauty, strength, and importance in our lives. Join the International Ocean Film Foundation for three unforgettable collections of ocean storytelling that inspire connection, spark curiosity, and celebrate the blue world we share.
Three Programs / One Incredible Ocean
OCTOBER 2026
Program goes live Oct 20th!
Ride the waves, dive beneath the surface, and discover the power of the ocean through four inspiring short films. From sailing adventures and open water swimming to surfing and underwater exploration, Ocean Sports celebrates the courage, resilience, and passion of those who find freedom, connection, and inspiration in the blue.
THE FILMS
Back to the Sea | 2022 | 6 min | USA | Jack Gordon
From the Golden Gate to the Farallones | 2017 | 37 min | USA | Jack Bushell
Water Warrior | 2019 | 4 min | USA | Monica Medellin
Lessons from Jeju | 2021 | 14 min | USA | Nicole Gormley
DECEMBER 2026
Program goes live Dec 20th!
Curated by Ana Blanco, IOFF Festival Director, this collection celebrates the powerful connections between people and the ocean. From whales and orcas to ocean conservation and community action, these five films inspire us to protect the blue planet we call home.
THE FILMS
Song of the Spindle | 2013 | 4 min | USA
Whales in a Changing Ocean | 2021 | 21 min | Australia | Richard Sidey
Truluck | 2023 | 20 min | UK | Matt Cannon & Jake Smallwood
A Better Life - Blue Habits Baja | 2020 | 7 min | Mexico | Ben Hamilton
Kokoly | 2020 | 15 min | Madagascar | Blue Ventures - Matthew Judge
NOVEMBER 2026
Program goes live Nov 20th!
From penguins and sharks to walruses in the Arctic and marine life emerging from the shadows, these four films offer an intimate look at the extraordinary creatures that call our oceans home. Discover stories of survival, sanctuary, and resilience that reveal the beauty of the natural world and remind us why protecting marine life matters.
THE FILMS
Penguins of the Point | 2026 | 17 min | Canada | Derek Robitaille
Seeking Sanctuary | 2018 | 11 min | UK | Nick Jones
Haulout | 2024 | 25 min | UK | Evgenia Arbugaeva, Maxim Arbugaev
From the Shadows | 2015 | 10 min | Spain | Jacques de Vos
