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SummaryRenowned marine biologist Dr. Edith Widder embarks on an extraordinary journey into the magical world of deep sea bioluminescence.
Directed By:Tasha Van Zandt
Written By:Tasha Van Zandt
A Life Illuminated
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Metascore
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100% Positive
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Jul 28, 2026
90
A Life Illuminated is an incredible film. It takes us to one of the most extreme places on Earth, it reveals previously unseen phenomena, it takes us on the journey of scientific discovery, and it is an inspiration.
Jul 28, 2026
88
Dazzled by the stars of the deep sea, the film leaves us curious to know more about these light-dependent beings but also fulfilled in knowing that Dr. Widder’s work continues as she nourishes the next generation of marine biologists.
Jul 28, 2026
75
What Van Zandt and cinematographer Sebastian Zeck show is, much like Dr. Widder herself, extremely impressive and not at all showy. In following Dr. Widder’s journey, we learn how much even a single good shot of bioluminescent activity is valued. By the time the film ends, we are treated to the whole fireworks display. Illuminating, absolutely.
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Production Company:
- Minderoo Pictures
- OceanX Media
- Sandbox Films
- Sandbox Films (II)
- XTR
Release Date:Jul 24, 2026
Duration:1 h 29 m
Awards
New York Wild Film Festival
• 2 Wins & 2 Nominations
Banff Mountain Film Competition
• 1 Win & 1 Nomination
Hamptons Doc Fest
• 1 Win & 1 Nomination
