Playing with Sharks

About Playing with Sharks

"Playing with Sharks" is a 2021 documentary that focuses on the life and work of Valerie Taylor, a renowned Australian scuba diver, shark expert, and conservationist. The movie invites viewers into Valerie's extraordinary underwater world, portraying her multi-faceted relationship with these captivating creatures.

The film documents her journey from champion spear-fisher to passionate shark protector and carries a clear and potent conservation message by charting the development of our understanding of sharks. It delves into both the marvels and dangers of the ocean, showcasing Taylor's life along with numerous beautiful underwater sequences.

Making/Production

"Playing with Sharks" is produced by Wildbear Entertainment in association with Dogwoof. The film, directed by Sally Aitken, is a visual feast of archival footage of Valerie and her husband Ron interspersed with interviews with Valerie as she narrates her life story.

Actors

• Valerie Taylor: Playing herself, she narrates her life's story and her unwavering fascination with sharks. She presents a riveting portrayal of a woman who defied societal norms to follow her passion.
• Ron Taylor: Seen in archival footage, Ron was Valerie's partner and fellow adventurer. He forms a significant part of the story, helping to bring the tale to life.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

• Real footage from Valerie Taylor's life is used in the film, including her first encounter with a Great White Shark.
• Before turning to conservation, Valerie was a champion spearfisher.
• Valerie and Ron Taylor also filmed footage for the iconic film "Jaws."

Quotes

• "The ocean's not a place of fear, it's a place of wonder."
• "Sharks are the balance keepers of the sea."

Music, Soundtrack

• The music of "Playing with Sharks" composed by Caitlyn Yeo imbues the documentary with tension, suspense, excitement, and a sense of awe. It beautifully evokes the splendor and unpredictability of the underwater world.