VIFF Announces Inaugural Rob Stewart Eco Warrior Award

Our society advances through the trailblazing paths that Eco Warriors forge. 2018 marks the beginning of the Rob Stewart Eco Warrior Award as part of the Vancouver International Film Festival's (VIFF) Impact stream. The annual award will recognize an individual whose work as an activist and storyteller advances social impact agendas and changes the way we think and act in the world.

VIFF's Impact stream showcases uncompromising films and features discussions that have the power to spark action and change the way audiences see the world. As part of the Impact Stream, this award will celebrate and support impactful filmmakers to further their cause and ignite positive change.

"VIFF is humbled to announce the first annual Rob Stewart Eco Warrior Award will be presented to an impact filmmaker beginning 2019 and include a cash grant of $5,000," said Jacqueline Dupuis, Executive Director, VIFF. "Together with RBC and Cineplex, we are committed to elevating social visionaries and defenders of truth and Rob Stewart is a shining example of exactly that."

Rob Stewart was a beloved Canadian filmmaker and charismatic conservationist, known for his documentaries Sharkwater (2007), Revolution (2012) and Sharkwater Extinction (2018), which brought the devastating issues of shark finning and ocean conservation to the world stage. In January 2017, while shooting Sharkwater Extinction, Rob Stewart tragically passed away during a dive off the Florida Keys. The world was stunned by the loss of one of the most influential activists of our time. Rob risked everything in a tireless effort to educate, preserve and defend the oceans.

"The Stewart family is honoured that the Vancouver International Film Festival has created the annual Rob Stewart Eco Warrior Award. Our thanks to RBC and Cineplex for their tremendous support in making this possible," said Brian and Sandy Stewart, Alexandra Stewart and Roger Rudisuli. "VIFF was a special place for Rob; in addition to Sharkwater Extinction, both Sharkwater and Revolution premiered there and he worked with so many people in Vancouver and BC in the protection of our oceans. Rob would be thrilled that this award will continue to inspire filmmakers committed to making positive change in the world."

"RBC is committed to investing in the arts as well as supporting artists in telling important stories. Film has a unique ability to bring audiences together to educate and inspire," said Martin Thibodeau, Regional President, BC, RBC Royal Bank.

"As a filmmaker Rob, gave his life to changing people's perceptions of sharks. They are extraordinary creatures that play a crucial role in our marine ecosystems," said Michael Kennedy, Executive Vice President, Filmed Entertainment for Cineplex. "The greatest tribute Rob could receive, would be for people to rise up to help end the relentless slaughter of our precious sea life. We at Cineplex hope this Award helps to create this change through education and positive action."

Sharkwater Extinction will have its second VIFF screening on Sunday September 30th, and will be distributed by D Films in theatres across Canada on October 19th, 2018.

Launched in 2016, the Films+ program features live interdisciplinary performances, industry talks, workshops, VR and other unique experiences, all celebrating the achievements and innovations of screen-based storytelling. Each VIFF programming stream offers a Films+ program.

Founded in 1982, the Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society is a not-for-profit cultural society and federally registered charitable organization that operates the internationally acclaimed Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) and the year-round programming of the Vancity Theatre at the Vancouver International Film Centre. VIFF produces screenings, talks and events that act as a catalyst for the community to discover the creativity and craft of screen storytelling. For its 37th year, VIFF welcomes the world to Vancouver from September 27 - October 12, 2018 as it showcases the top international, Canadian and BC films and plays host to industry professionals from around the globe.

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