23rd Annual International Ocean Film Festival- Online Film Program 2026

Online Screening - Program #1 Where Water Connects Us

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From the restored flow of the Klamath River to the cold waters of San Francisco Bay and the farthest reaches of a changing planet, this program explores the powerful connection between people and water. Indigenous youth paddle a newly undammed river in a journey of healing and renewal. A tight knit community of swimmers finds belonging in the icy ocean. Across the globe, innovators at the frontlines of climate resilience reveal that hope is already in motion. Together these stories show how water carries culture, connection, and the promise of change.

One group of teenagers became the first people in 100 years to paddle all 310 miles of the Klamath River after the removal of four California dams last year.


The Indigenous youths, ages 13 to 20, represented tribes from the entire Klamath River Basin. The 30-day paddle celebrated the generations who had fought to undam the Klamath and bring back the salmon that once packed the river.


  • Year
    2025
  • Runtime
    10 minutes
  • Director
    Bronte Wittpenn
  • Producer
    Bronte Wittpenn
  • Co-Producer
    Maggie Beidelman
  • Filmmaker
    Bronte Wittpenn
  • Cinematographer
    Bronte Wittpenn
  • Editor
    Bronte Wittpenn
  • Animator
    John Blanchard, Daymond Gascon
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