Grumpy Turtle & Media Stockade announce Seahorse School
Media Stockade and Grumpy Turtle Films have partnered to co-produce Seahorse School, a documentary feature film directed by Harriet Spark with cinematography by Woody Spark, and produced by Rebecca Barry and Chris Kamen.
Seahorse School follows Australian underwater cinematographer Woody Spark as he forms an unexpected bond with two marine biologists working to save the critically endangered White's Seahorse from extinction. Unable to have biological children of his own, Woody becomes captivated by the seahorses, one of the unique species in the world where the male gives birth. Whilst watching the scientists navigate the challenges of their conservation work and fatherhood, Woody reckons with the idea of his legacy in a deeply troubled and uncertain world.
Filmed in the waters of Sydney Harbour and Port Stephens NSW, Seahorse School reveals a hidden world beneath the surface. With exquisite macro photography of the tiny sea creatures, coupled with a dramatic story of underwater survival, the film shines a light on the important work to protect this critically endangered species found nowhere else in the world.
The film has been made possible through the financial support of Minderoo Pictures and Screen NSW. Their investment has enabled the project to move into production and supports a cinematic documentary that combines environmental storytelling with an intimate portrait of fatherhood.
Distribution for Seahorse School will be managed by Icon Film Distribution, a leading independent distributor in Australia and New Zealand. The partnership marks an important step in bringing the film to audiences, with plans for both theatrical and digital release. Rights for the rest of the world remain available, with international sales discussions currently underway.
The on-screen contributors include cinematographer Woody Spark, and world-leading seahorse experts Dave Harasti and Mitch Brennan. The project marks Harriet Spark’s debut as a feature film director, who has previously worked on high-profile productions such as Secrets of the Octopus for National Geographic and Dr Karl’s How Things Work for the ABC. Together with Media Stockade producers Rebecca Barry and Chris Kamen the team holds extensive experience across documentary film production.
“We were captivated by this story from the moment Harriet pitched it at AIDC (Leading Lights), and we recognised straight away how far it could travel, both locally and internationally," said Rebecca Barry. "Seahorse School is an enchanting way to explore serious subjects, and it's been a joy to partner with Harriet and Woody to bring this remarkable Sydney story to the screen and share it with audiences who care about people, nature and the future of our oceans”
"What began as a conservation story gradually became something much more personal. I was fascinated by the parallels between protecting a vulnerable species and navigating the challenges of infertility, “ said director Harriet Spark. "Stories like this remind us that magic exists in the most unlikely places and that leaving a legacy behind can take many forms."
“Minderoo Pictures is proud to support this powerful documentary, which weaves together the urgent need for ocean conservation with a deeply personal exploration of fatherhood and caring masculinity,” said Malinda Wink, Executive Director, Minderoo Pictures. "We look forward to audiences discovering this extraordinary story and gaining a deeper appreciation for the remarkable conservation work taking place in our own backyard."
“We immediately recognised the power of Seahorse School as a uniquely Australian story with universal appeal," said Sharon Strickland CEO of Icon Film Distribution. "Supporting local filmmakers and helping bring untold stories like Woody's to audiences is central to what we do. This is a beautifully crafted documentary that shines a light on the people working to protect our natural world, while exploring themes of family, legacy and hope that resonate far beyond our shores.
Screen NSW’s Senior Manager Content Investment, Lauren Edwards said, “Seahorse School offers rare insight into the mission to save the critically endangered White's Seahorse, balancing this deftly with the emotional journey of underwater cinematographer Woody Spark, which provides a real emotion anchor for this documentary that is sure to resonate. Filmed in Sydney Harbour and Port Stephens, Screen NSW is pleased to support Media Stockade and director Harriet Spark bring this urgent, and touching, documentary to audiences when it releases next year.”
Call for media and industry engagement
Media and industry representatives interested in learning more about Seahorse School are invited to contact the team. A media day is being planned for February 2027, offering opportunities to meet the filmmakers, access exclusive production insights and explore the story behind the film.
A special request from the producers…
To find out more about how you can help bring Seahorse School to life, please visit the Documentary Australia website or email producer Chris Kamen.
Seahorse School is slated to premiere in cinemas in 2027. Specific dates to be announced in due course.
