Submitted by the Friday Harbor Film Festival.

Friday Harbor Film Festival’s FREE “Best of the Fest” series will present the Short Films Showcase, four related films about the Salish Sea and San Juan Island at the San Juan Island Grange on Friday, June 23 at 7 p.m.

Following the film Dr. Deborah Giles from Wild Orca will lead the filmmakers’ Q and A. Filmmakers will appear in person and by livestream to speak about the films and answer audience questions. For those who can’t attend in person, the movies will be livestreamed free. Start the film between 7 and 8 pm, on the website: fhff.org.

“Bring the Salmon Home,” 2022 FHFF Audience Choice Award Winner for Best Documentary Short Film, portrays the resilience of Klamath River tribes running a 300-mile marathon from sea to source, advocating for the largest-ever river restoration – the removal of four Klamath River dams. As dam removal approval looms, the race symbolizes a hopeful future. Director Shane Anderson will participate in the Q and A by livestream.

“Contrasts” advocates for marine species’ liberation, shedding light on the grim realities of their captivity. It stresses every creature’s right to freedom, challenging human’s entitlement to exploit them for profit and amusement. The film intends to awaken empathy for animal welfare. Director Vanessa Prigollini will participate in the Q and A by livestream.

“Stories from the Salish Sea” is a series about the Salish Sea comprised of 3 episodes: “The Kelp Highway,” “Salmon in the City,” and “Eba + the Orcas.” They feature Chris Morgan, wildlife ecologist, conservationist, filmmaker, and host of the podcast “The Wild,” as he showcases three of the Pacific Northwest’s main concerns – the kelp highway, the city’s connection to salmon, and the dog who helps save orcas. Director Aaron Straight will participate in the Q&A by livestream.

“Stepping Into History: On the Old Military Road Trail” was directed by San Juan Islander Michael Noonan. In the 1850s, the US and Britain nearly clashed over the San Juan Islands in the Salish Sea. Commanders and authorities prevented conflict, by constructing a road linking military camps. Today, volunteers are reviving this road, celebrating peaceful resolutions while showcasing the areas history and natural beauty. Michael Noonan will participate in the Q&A in person.

Thank you to the sponsors of these films: Printonyx, San Juan Islands Food Coop, Wild Orca, and Harbor Rental & Saw Shop.

Each month through September Best of the Fest will offer an award-winning documentary along with a livestream Q and A. Programs begin at 7 p’m. Since they’re on Fridays, they are a great “date night” activity. Details about the films in the series are available on the fhff.org website. Mark your calendar and plan to view the exceptional Best of the Fest documentaries.