Film will broadcast on TV show, Independent Lens

September 5, 2019 – MALIBU, Calif., U.S. – Plastic Oceans International, a nonprofit organization working to end global plastic pollution, today announced that PBS will air its film, Eating Up Easter, on the television show, Independent Lens, May 25, 2020.

In the documentary, native Rapanui (Easter Island) filmmaker, Sergio Mata’u Rapu, explores the modern dilemma of the Easter Island people who risk losing everything to the globalizing effects of tourism. The film addresses plastic pollution, sustainability, waste management, the environmental impact of tourism, loss of cultural identity and globalization.

During its recent European premiere, Eating Up Easter won the Best Sustainability award at the Portuguese Surf Film Festival.

Plastic Oceans presents Eating Up Easter in association with the creative and production teams of producer and director, Sergio M. Rapu; producer and writer, Elena Rapu; Kartemquin Films and Pacific Islanders in Communications.

Learn more at itvs.org/films/eating-up-easter.

Eating Up Easter movie posterAbout Eating Up Easter

In a cinematic letter to his son, native Rapanui (Easter Island) filmmaker, Sergio Mata’u Rapu, explores the modern dilemma of their people who risk losing everything to the globalizing effects of tourism. The film follows four islanders, descendants of the ancient statue builders, who are working to tackle the consequences of their rapidly developing home. Mama Piru leads recycling efforts to reduce trash, Mahani and Enrique use music to reunite their divided community, and Sergio tries to understand the motivations of his father who embraces the advantages of building new businesses. These stories intertwine to reveal the complexities of development and the contradictions within us all as we are faced with hard choices about our planet’s future. Learn more at plasticoceans.org/eating-up-easter.

About Filmmaker, Sergio Mata’u Rapu

Native Rapanui Producer/Director, Sergio Mata’u Rapu, is the only Easter Islander working in production in an English-speaking country. He has spent the last 15 years shooting and producing documentaries that have aired on the History Channel, Travel Channel, National Geographic and NOVA. Through his work, Sergio aims to show the diversity of life through thought-provoking media to inspire resolutions to social, economic and environmental conflicts.

About Plastic Oceans International

Plastic Oceans International is a nonprofit organization working to end global plastic pollution. It aims to change consumer behavior, corporate and public policy, and foster solutions to plastic waste. More than 300 million tons of plastic are produced annually, yet more than 90% of all plastic is not recycled. At least eight million tons of plastic are dumped into the ocean each year—equal to a garbage truck per minute. Studies find plastic pollutes the air, water and entire food chain, threatening human health, wildlife and the planet. Through solutions-focused films and digital content – complemented by research, education and awareness initiatives – Plastic Oceans promotes a global movement to rethink plastic. Learn more at plasticoceans.org, Facebook @PlasticOceans, Instagram @plasticoceans, Twitter @PlasticOceansUS and YouTube Plastic Oceans International.

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