East to West: Corsica to Bodrum

Synopsis

Following a coastal struggle that began in Bodrum, the film focuses on activists fighting coastal development and the destruction of seagrass meadows. Racing against time to protect the meadows, the group turns to Corsica for support in the face of massive construction machinery. Much of Corsica’s coastline has been preserved despite development pressure. Their solidarity creates a new bond between Bodrum and Corsica, while showing how both regions face similar threats from tourism and the pressure of a growing population. Bringing the eastern and western Mediterranean together around a common cause, the struggle leads to an underwater sculpture exhibition highlighting seagrass meadows, with support from the French Embassy and the municipalities of Bodrum and Muğla. The film shows how international solidarity can offer hope for protecting the Mediterranean's future.

Director Biography

Mert Gökalp

Marine biologist, documentary filmmaker, photographer, and writer. A graduate of Middle East Technical University, Gökalp completed his master’s degree in Marine Biotechnology and earned his PhD in Marine Animal Ecology from Wageningen University. His work brings scientific research together with visual storytelling and public awareness, with a focus on marine life, ecosystems, and coastal conservation. Since 2006, he has carried out projects with organisations including WWF, Greenpeace, and UNDP. His documentaries have been broadcast on national and international platforms and received awards at festivals. He is the founder and coordinator of Project Posidonia and Green Rangers, and a founding member of the Mediterranean Ecological Heritage Association.

Credits

Camera / Kamera

Ece Irmak Tulçalı, Mert Gökalp

Editing / Kurgu

Mert Gökalp

Sound / Ses

Mert Gökalp, Ece Irmak Tulçalı

Production / Yapım

Mert Gökalp