provided to The Santiva Chronicle
The award-winning documentary film, “Sanibel,” starts its run in Florida theaters with screenings in Sarasota on April 11-18, offering audiences a powerful look at the impact of Hurricane Ian on Southwest Florida’s beloved coastal communities. The screenings will also raise funds for FISH OF SANCAP.
Winner of the Naples International Film Festival’s Best Florida Film Award, “Sanibel” began as a film about seashell collectors and the island community’s vibrant shelling culture. When Hurricane Ian struck during filming in 2022, the story quickly transformed into one of survival, resilience, and community.
Kevan Rayden, one of the producers of “Sanibel,” said the filmmakers felt inspired to give back to the community. During the theater run from April through May, Rayden noted that 10 percent of all ticket proceeds will go to FISH and to the American Red Cross, which played vital roles in supporting the people of Sanibel.
He added that the campaign will spotlight hurricane preparedness and evacuation awareness through digital outreach and in-theater resources.
“FISH is deeply grateful for this generous gesture by Swipemarket, Dirty Robber, and The Unreasnble, the production partners behind ‘Sanibel,’” said FISH Executive Director Maria Espinoza. “Their support means as much to our community as the incredible story they tell in the film.”
Espinoza noted how FISH stepped in following Hurricane Ian — from hot meals and emergency food boxes to cleaning supplies, fuel, gift cards, case management, stocking the food pantry, and helping small businesses reopen.
“FISH delivered hope when it was needed most,” she said.
“Sanibel” is directed, written, and produced by Herbert James Winterstern. Additional producers include Kevan Rayden and Adam Ganser. Executive producers include Dirty Robber’s Matt Roe and The Unreasnble’s Mickey Meyer, Travon Free, and Martin Desmond Roe. The editors are Nick Bradford and John Conway. Many residents appear in “Sanibel,” including three who will be spotlighted in upcoming articles.
Screenings of “Sanibel” begin April 11-18 in Sarasota. Additional showings will take place in Davie, Naples, and Tampa, with more dates to be announced. Find out more at sanibelmovie.com.
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