Older Than Trees

The film tells the story of James Lea, a field biologist who grew up dreaming of sharks; enigmatic monsters of the deep. In his first few years as a field biologist, he fell in love with silky sharks in the Red Sea, where he got to interact with them and learn their individual personalities. But, in the space of just a few years, he watched as almost each and every animal he had known was lost to the shark fin trade. Feeling heartbroken and helpless, James resolved to use his expertise as a scientist to protect sharks in places where they still have a chance to thrive. Older Than Trees highlights Lea’s work in the field, and the success he’s contributed to in safeguarding these ancient species through the creation of marine protected areas. Using both new and never-before-seen archival footage, we are taken on an expedition around the world that showcases the critical role science plays in safeguarding vulnerable species like sharks and rays.