Archive · 13 Nov 2025
Turtle Walker Documentary to Open ALTEFF 2025
A movie called 'Turtle Walker' is going to be shown first at a big environmental movie festival in India in 2025.
This movie tells the inspiring story of Satish Bhaskar, a man who dedicated his life to saving sea turtles along India's coast many years ago.
He lived near the turtles to learn about them and protect them from almost disappearing.
The film, made by famous people like Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti, has already won awards at other film festivals around the world.
Festival organizers are excited to show this film because it highlights the importance of nature and how one person can make a big difference.
The movie also reminds us how precious all living things are.
It's a story about caring for our planet and its amazing creatures.
The documentary 'Turtle Walker' will open the All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALTEFF) 2025.
The film chronicles the life and legacy of India's pioneering sea turtle conservationist, Satish Bhaskar.
It is produced by Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Taira Malaney, and HHMI Tangled Bank Studios.
ALTEFF 2025 is scheduled to take place from December 4 to 14.
'Turtle Walker' has previously premiered at DOC NYC and won multiple awards at international festivals.
- Who
- The documentary 'Turtle Walker', produced by Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Taira Malaney, and HHMI Tangled Bank Studios.
- What
- Will open the All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALTEFF) 2025, showcasing the life of Indian sea turtle conservationist Satish Bhaskar.
- When
- The festival runs from December 4 to 14, 2025, and 'Turtle Walker' will open the event.
- Where
- The All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALTEFF) 2025.
- Why
- The film chronicles Satish Bhaskar's pioneering conservation efforts and aims to promote climate awareness and action, aligning with the festival's mission.
Arguments for Opening Film Choice
Festival's Role
Significance of Satish Bhaskar's Story
Arguments for Opening Film Choice
Festival director Kunal Khanna highlighted that Satish Bhaskar's story is about commitment, humility, and the impact one individual can have on environmental history. Zoya Akhtar described it as a tribute to quiet heroism and a reminder of the specialness of every living being.
Festival's Role
ALT EFF aims to spotlight films promoting climate awareness and action, and sees the documentary as a reflection of nature's fragility and resilience, making it a fitting opener.
Filmmakers' Perspective on the Film
Arguments for Opening Film Choice
The filmmakers are excited to showcase the film at ALT EFF, viewing it as an Indian-rooted story that champions the environment and wildlife.
Festival's Role
Director Taira Malaney expressed that working on the story instilled wonder and hope, while Reema Kagti believes ALT EFF is a great platform for such a story.
- Festival Name
- All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALTEFF) 2025
- Film Title
- Turtle Walker
- Director
- Taira Malaney
- Producers
- Zoya Akhtar, Reema Kagti, Taira Malaney, HHMI Tangled Bank Studios
- Subject
- Satish Bhaskar, Indian sea turtle conservationist
- Festival Dates
- December 4 - 14, 2025
- Previous Premieres/Screenings
- DOC NYC (2024), International Ocean Film Festival, Jackson Wild Media Awards, Raindance, Hamptons
- Awards Won
- Conservation Award (International Ocean Film Festival), Conservation and Grand Teton awards (Jackson Wild Media Awards)
