Our latest long-form broadcast documentary for Warner Bros Discovery, directed by Ian Derry, sheds light on the urgent need to protect coral reefs from climate change, focusing on the undiscovered reefs along Saudi Arabia's Red Sea coastline and the potential benefits of coral research in the region for ecosystems worldwide.

At the heart of the story is Salma Shaker, a skilled Saudi Arabian free diver, who embarks on a remarkable journey as she engages with groundbreaking research led by scientists at Red Sea Global and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST). With exclusive access granted to key marine locations, the film, shot over eight weeks in the summer of 2023, showcases how environmental stewardship can be integrated with tourism development.

Captured by DOP Jean Charles-Granjon, known for his work on Derry's previous Emmy and BAFTA-nominated film Hold Your Breath: The Ice Dive, this documentary transcends borders by offering a captivating look at coral reefs worldwide, including Mexico. It brings attention to the vital role coral reefs play in sustaining ecosystems globally and underscores the urgent need for conservation efforts.

“Whilst shooting this film, we saw many incredible initiatives that hopefully can combat global warming and future-proof our corals, but we also saw some devastation that reduced some of our crew to tears. The one thing I got from all experts involved, was they all had hope. But they cannot do it alone, they need filmmakers, communities globally, business globally, education and pressure on those who continue to be a part of the problem, not the solution. Discovery gave me an incredible opportunity to tell this important story, I hope we can educate people and have a positive impact as a result”. Ian Derry, Director

Salma Shaker said, “My dream is to make sure that the corals and the marine life is there for my children and my children's children”.

“It’s been a hugely rewarding production over 18 months working with Warner Bros. Discovery, and we’re incredibly proud of the film that we’ve produced. Park Village and especially our director, Ian are committed to telling stories that have a positive impact and drive awareness of the issues of the day, and we hope this film brings a level of education and hope for the future to a new generation of conservationists.” Adam Booth, Managing Partner & EP

Edina Constantinescu, senior director marketing EMEA and international, social good discovery networks at Warner Bros. Discovery, said, “Social good is an important priority for us at Warner Bros. Discovery and we aim to be at the forefront of raising awareness upon social and environmental issues our world faces constantly. Our brands give us the possibility to reach millions of people across the world and I’m so proud that ‘Beneath the Surface: The Fight for Corals’ will air on Discovery Channel across the US, Europe, Turkey, The Middle East, Africa and Asia to cast the spotlight on the importance of protecting our reefs.”