Auli’i Cravalho Reflects on Making SXSW Documentary ‘Reef Builders’ and How ‘I Feel Like I’m Inheriting a World That Is On Fire’

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Actress and Broadway singer Auli’i Cravalho, famously known for her role in “Moana”, acknowledges that her position in the entertainment industry has granted her the chance to significantly contribute positively. Most recently, her documentary titled “Reef Builders” which was unveiled at SXSW, serves as a beacon highlighting initiatives aimed at restoring coral reefs.

Honestly, not all people have the ability to leave a mark. That’s simply how things are,” Cravalho explained to Clayton Davis during the EbMaster Watch Party of “Reef Builders”, sponsored by Sheba. “Given that I find myself in this role and can merge my love for filmmaking with my commitment towards advocacy, particularly for my homeland and state, it was an obvious choice for this project.

The documentary titled ‘Reef Builders’ showcases real-life accounts of individuals involved in the Sheba Hope Grows program, spearheading significant reef restoration efforts to combat the effects of climate change on coral reefs worldwide. This film has been made available to viewers by the SHEBA brand, with Cravalho serving as an associate producer.”

“Reef Builders,” which premiered during SXSW, tells the true stories of people involved in the Sheba Hope Grows program, leading major restorations to save the world’s coral reefs in the face of climate change. The documentary is brought to audiences by the SHEBA brand, with Cravalho attached as an associate producer.)

At the gathering, it was acknowledged by Dr. Daniel DeMartini from Kuleana Coral Restoration that groundbreaking technology developed by both SHEBA and Mars Sustainable Solutions is transforming coral restoration into a global endeavor.

In a challenging setting marked by intricate political structures and numerous obstacles, as DeMartini expressed, it’s important to acknowledge the authenticity portrayed in this film – not only for Hawaii, but also for Kenya and other places worldwide. The power of this tool is undeniable.

Initially, filmmaker Stephen Shearman felt apprehensive about the task of narrating the tale of coral reef conservation. However, his viewpoint shifted dramatically upon visiting Bontosua, an isolated community consisting of merely 400 residents, for the first time.

As I met Sam and he spoke, I could sense a deeper tale behind his words. He offhandedly mentioned about two more houses being affected, ‘They’ve gone.’ In that moment, the gravity of losing coral reefs hit me squarely. The thought of these precious reefs being lost to human hands felt like a punch in the gut. It was this realization that set the stage for our film.

Professor David Smith, Mars Sustainable Solutions’ senior director, used the occasion to urge the audience to ponder over the significance of coral reefs in their own lives. “The very air you breathe is connected to the ocean, and that ocean relies on coral reefs … It falls upon each of us to take action as well.”

Professor David Smith, Mars Sustainable Solutions’ senior director, seized the moment to remind the audience about the vital role coral reefs play in their lives. “Your life and every breath you take are interconnected with the ocean, and that ocean relies on coral reefs … It is our duty to act accordingly.

Cravalho continued by expressing that as a young individual, she feels as though she’s receiving a world that’s ablaze. Indeed, it’s in flames, without a doubt. However, what captivates her about this documentary is the fact that it highlights there’s still a glimmer of hope… It would be pointless to mention hope if not for the power of communities and local indigenous groups.

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2025-03-13 22:47