Set in Petty Harbour, Newfoundland, the film follows Doug Howlett, a local fisherman, as he shares his personal journey, the challenges of the industry, and the impact of increasing corporate control over fish processing.
KÖBB Media produced this documentary-style video for the Fish, Food & Allied Workers (FFAW), capturing a pivotal moment in Newfoundland’s fishing industry. Filmed on the last days of the crab price negotiation tie-up, the video provides an intimate look at the lives of independent fishers, their deep connection to the ocean, and the challenges they face in an increasingly corporate-driven industry.
The story begins close to the shore, where the fishermen engage in lobster fishing, a practice that holds little economic importance in Petty Harbour but serves as a way to stay active on the water while waiting for the tie-up to end. This moment of patience and routine contrasts with the larger reality they face, an industry where processing companies have gained control, limiting the autonomy of small fishing enterprises.
Once negotiations are resolved, the film transitions to a more urgent and demanding setting as the crew prepares for the crab fishery, their primary source of income. With each movement, preparing the boat, loading traps, and heading offshore, the tension of the past weeks gives way to focus and determination. As they set their traps in the cold Atlantic waters, the video highlights the hard work, long hours, and unpredictable conditions that define this fishery. More than just a job, fishing represents a way of life passed down through generations, an identity that is increasingly threatened by economic pressures and regulatory loopholes that favor large corporations.
High-Quality Production in a Demanding Environment
Filming on the rough waters of the East Coast required an experienced production team capable of adapting to the unpredictable conditions at sea. KÖBB Media captured the raw beauty and intensity of life on the water, from the spray of the Atlantic to the physical effort of hauling crab pots, ensuring a visually immersive experience that brings the audience directly into the world of these fishermen.
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KÖBB Media specializes in compelling storytelling that brings real-world issues to life. Whether for documentary production, advocacy, or industry promotion, we create visually stunning, impactful content.
