Rubber Jellyfish is a thought-provoking and heartwarming documentary film that explores the impact of helium balloon litter on our environment and wildlife. The film features interviews with activists, scientists, and everyday people affected by the issue, as well as footage from helium balloon releases and beach cleanups. The film begins with a young Australian woman named Carly Wilson who has a personal connection to the issue. As a child, she released helium balloons into the sky as a way to honor a deceased loved one. But as she grew older and learned about the environmental impact of balloon litter, she became determined to raise awareness of the issue.
Carly sets out on a journey to uncover the truth about helium balloon releases and their impact on the environment. She visits a marine life hospital and sees firsthand the devastating effects of balloon ingestion on sea creatures. She also speaks with activists and scientists who are working to ban the release of helium balloons and promote more sustainable alternatives.
The film is filled with emotional moments, such as when Carly meets a group of children who have lost a parent to cancer and are releasing balloons in their memory. Carly gently explains the harm that balloon litter can cause and guides the children towards a more environmentally friendly way to honor their loved ones.
Rubber Jellyfish also highlights the creative ways that people are working to combat balloon litter. One example is a group of women who are repurposing littered balloons into colorful jellyfish sculptures. These works of art both raise awareness of the issue and offer a solution for how to deal with the balloons that have already been released.
The film also touches on the controversy surrounding the balloon industry's claim that balloons are biodegradable. Carly speaks with scientists who have found that even so-called "biodegradable" balloons can take years to break down and still harm wildlife in the process.
Rubber Jellyfish is a well-crafted and informative documentary that will leave viewers with a new awareness and reverence for our planet. The film does a great job of balancing the serious message of the issue with heartwarming and inspiring moments. It also offers practical solutions for how individuals can make a difference, such as using alternative forms of celebration and spreading the message to their community.
Overall, Rubber Jellyfish is a must-see documentary for anyone interested in environmentalism or social justice. It is a powerful reminder that even seemingly small actions, such as releasing a single helium balloon, can have far-reaching consequences. The film inspires viewers to take action and make a positive difference in the world.
Rubber Jellyfish is a 2018 documentary with a runtime of 79 hours.
