An evening of documentary films from Cornish filmmakers, brought together by a shared connection to place. From Cornwall’s hidden mines and storm-battered landscapes to the warming seas of the Mediterranean, these films explore the ways our environments shape us—and the ways we, in turn, shape them.

Across stories of adventure, friendship, conservation and change, Shaped by Place brings together three distinct documentary voices with Cornwall, its landscape, people and culture at their creative roots.

BEFORE THE LAST OCTOPUS
Dir. Robbie Newby.
39 mins

Before the Last Octopus is a new documentary from Sea Shepherd Global and directed by Cornish based filmmkaer Robbie Newby exposing one of the quieter crises facing the Mediterranean: illegal octopus traps that are stripping the seabed bare, largely out of sight and out of mind.

Octopuses are among the most intelligent and remarkable animals in the ocean. But across parts of the Mediterranean, illegal and unregulated fishing is threatening their survival while damaging the wider marine ecosystems and coastal communities that depend on healthy seas.

Before the Last Octopus takes audiences beneath the surface of this largely unseen crisis. The documentary follows the people on the front line—from fishing communities watching their catches decline to the Sea Shepherd campaigners working to remove illegal fishing gear and drive unlawful operators out of protected waters.

It is a story about what happens when a fishery is left unchecked for too long—and what it takes to turn that around before it is too late.

Watch the trailer here

BBFC Rating: Certificate TBC

About Sea Shepherd
Sea Shepherd is an international marine conservation movement working to defend, conserve and protect the ocean. Through direct action, collaboration and public awareness, our crews campaign around the world to protect marine wildlife and the ecosystems on which all life depends.

The Lost Boys of Carbis Bay
Dir. Daniel Simpkins
30 mins

The Carbis Bay Crew, a daring band of unlikely explorers, embark on a quest to uncover the forgotten mines of Cornwall, only to unearth an unexpected journey of self-discovery.

For this motley crew, the pursuit of the unknown serves as a cathartic release, allowing them to momentarily cast aside their worries and reset for the challenges of everyday life. Transcending mere adrenaline urges, the group becomes a vital means of connection and understanding, underscoring the importance of community in our lives.

“Funny, poignant and totally exhilarating – beautiful filmmaking, fascinating story” – Mark Jenkin, BAFTA-winning director (Bait, Enys Men, Rose of Nevada).

BBFC Rating
Rated 12A – infrequent strong language, moderate drug references

https://www.dansimpkins.com/thelostboysofcarbisbay

The Lumberjack and the Fisherman
Dir. Lucy Maistone
4 mins

A short trip through Cornwall’s storm hit trees and warming seas.
Premiered at Sheffield DocFest this June as part of the Filmmaker Challenge 2026, to tell stories inspired by this year’s theme ‘Realities in Motion’.

BBFC Rating: Certificate TBC

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Venue: Studio 74, Exeter Phoenix

*Subject to a £1.50 ticketing system charge. We don’t charge this to make a profit. Find out more >>