Deep Rising: The Impact of Deep Sea Mining

Photo by Chris Barrett at the Deep Rising premiere at the 2023 Sundance Film Festival

Matthieu Rytz returns to Sundance with "Deep Rising," a compelling documentary that delves into the potential consequences of deep-sea mining. Narrated by Jason Momoa, the film explores the complex geopolitical, scientific, and corporate interests driving the race to extract valuable metals from the ocean floor, metals critical to the electric battery revolution.

"Deep Rising" strikingly illuminates the intricate and delicate balance between the deep ocean and life on Earth. Rytz's exceptional fly-on-the-wall access to mining startup The Metals Company reveals their efforts to secure funding, public support, and permission from the International Seabed Authority to mine vast areas of the Pacific Ocean floor.

The film is visually stunning, showcasing the mesmerizing luminescent creatures inhabiting the depths of the ocean. Rytz and editor Elisa Bonara expertly juxtapose this footage with images of destructive harvesting machines, emphasizing the fragility of the deep-sea ecosystem and the potential devastation caused by mining.

The documentary questions humanity's destructive pattern of resource extraction for profit and urges us to consider alternative solutions to our energy problems. With oil conglomerates shifting their investments toward deep-ocean mining, "Deep Rising" asks why we don't focus on developing abundant resources in a more sustainable manner.

Although "Deep Rising" may not present a clear-cut solution to the concerns it brings to light, it successfully ignites critical discussions and prompts viewers to contemplate the lasting impact of our choices.

"Deep Rising" offers an insightful and visually enthralling examination of the intricate dilemmas linked to deep-sea mining. This significant documentary underscores the importance of striking a balance between the quest for technological progress and preserving our delicate ecosystem.