Impact Storytelling

At Terra Mater Studios, we are aware that our impact doesn’t just have to be environmental, but also social and political. Through science-based impact campaigns, we have achieved significant results with a number of our feature documentaries. In this way, we can bring about lasting change, helping to safeguard our planet and inspire new mindsets.

The Ivory Game

Our critically acclaimed 2016 feature documentary was produced in collaboration with Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way Productions. In the style of an investigative thriller, it follows conservationists, activists, and undercover operatives working to expose the criminal networks behind global ivory trafficking. The film was instrumental in convincing state leaders to impose a nationwide ban on the ivory trade.

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A large pile of ivory tusks is engulfed in flames and smoke, reminiscent of a scene from an ivory game. The background is filled with gray and white clouds rising from the burning tusks, conveying a strong message against the ivory trade.

A vaquita glides through the deep blue ocean, partially submerged with its head and upper back peeking above the surface. In this serene sea of shadows, its small dorsal fin and smooth skin become visible, whispering tales of mystery beneath the waves.

Sea of Shadows

Terra Mater’s 2019 feature documentary directed by Richard Ladkani focuses on the vaquita, the world’s most endangered marine mammal. Investigative journalism, captivating cinematography, and high-stakes action combined to create a film with a powerful message and equally powerful impact. As well as gathering 98,000 petition signatures, the film saw 600 marines deployed to the vaquita refuge in Mexico, more than 20 traffickers arrested, and $170m of illegal swimbladder confiscated.

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Two people are in a boat on the water. The man with a long beard and sunglasses is steering, arms wide open. The woman beside him raises one arm. Both wear sunglasses and jackets as they navigate the sea of shadows under a clear blue sky, with endless ocean in the background.

Sea of Shadows Impact

Impact by Numbers

Followers across social platforms: 156k
Petition signatures on change.org: 98.2k
Film festival and impact screenings: 100+
Traffickers arrested: 20+

Star Chasers of Senegal

Our science documentary explores the enduring human fascination with the stars, at the intersection of modern space exploration and Senegal’s cultural and historical connections to astronomy. Senegalese astronomer Maram Kaire, the central figure in the film, has since gone on to establish a space agency in Senegal: a significant and lasting impact on science and research.

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A Star Chaser holds and examines an astrolabe against a clear blue sky, with a building featuring domes and minarets in the background, reminiscent of Senegal's vibrant architectural heritage.

A polar bear with two cubs stands on the snow-covered Arctic landscape, looking upward. The expansive icy background and overcast sky emphasize the chilly environment.

The Arctic: Our Last Great Wilderness

Our 2021 feature documentary captures the wild beauty and ecological significance of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska. It underscores not only the region’s incredible biodiversity, but also its cultural importance to Indigenous communities. This blend of environmental advocacy and stunning cinematography resulted in 6.3 million letters to protest oil and gas drilling – the largest public comment response in US history – as well as major global media coverage and considerable Gen-Z participation in a democratic process around the region’s land management.

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Two musk oxen with long, thick brown coats engage in a head-butting battle on the snowy arctic tundra. The sky is clear and blue, emphasizing the icy wilderness setting.

The Arctic: Our Last Great Wilderness Impact

Impact by Numbers

Online viewers worldwide: 105k
Website visitors before film release: 15m
Gen-Z youth participated in democratic process: 5m
Protest letters: 6.3m

Patrick and the Whale

Our widely acclaimed feature documentary follows filmmaker and diver Patrick Dykstra as he forms a bond with sperm whale Dolores. The film earned numerous awards for storytelling, cinematography, and environmental impact. But among the most significant of its effects was the creation of the world’s first sperm whale reserve in Dominica, to safeguard future generations of these fascinating creatures.

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