Directed by
Ben Kalina
Made by
Brainstorm Media
Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Shored Up (2013). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.
Shored Up is a compelling documentary that serves as a critical wake-up call regarding the pressing issue of rising sea levels. Set against the backdrop of Long Beach Island, NJ, and the Outer Banks, NC, the film delves deep into the political struggles and personal consequences experienced by coastal communities. It features candid discussions with scientists, politicians, and local residents, revealing significant flaws in coastal management practices and emphasizing the urgent need for transformative change.
This documentary, filmed over three years and documenting the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, serves as an unsettling prophecy of the storm’s destructive impact. It portrays the harsh reality of what occurs when there is a disconnect between human ambition and the inevitable forces of nature—a theme encapsulated in the words:
“You can only tread water for so long on a coast that’s going under.”
Shored Up investigates the duality of our relationship with the ocean; while our desire for breathtaking sea views drives development, it also leads coastal communities towards disaster. The film expands across various platforms, including a feature documentary, interactive website, mobile app, and game, which together immerse audiences in the vivid elements of sand, waves, storms, and the history of our entangled romance with the coast.
Focusing on Long Beach Island, one of New Jersey’s first beach resorts, the film reveals a typical scene—sunbathers enjoying the warm summer rays and families indulging in ice cream. However, with the arrival of winter, the island faces the wrath of nor’easters and hurricanes that reshape the coastline, destroy homes, and at times sever the island in half. It highlights the ongoing conflict behind the scenes, as surfers and the Army Corps of Engineers clash over beach replenishment efforts. Although intended to shield property from erosion, this engineering strategy can inadvertently lead to various issues: altered surf breaks, increased injuries, and a damaged ecosystem beneath the waves.
As the narrative shifts from LBI to the Outer Banks, it shines a light on a crucial issue: sea level rise. For years, North Carolina has had progressive regulations aimed at protecting its coastlines from overdevelopment. However, these regulations now face fierce opposition from rising political forces. The film captures the tension during the Coastal Resource Committee’s annual meetings, as development advocates make attempts to silence scientific recommendations in favor of their interests.
Throughout its exploration, Shored Up intertwines the history of Atlantic coast development through insightful interviews with historians, citizens, and local mayors like Deborah Whitcraft, Margaret Schram, and Jonathon Oldham. It reveals a broader narrative about the politics of climate change, addressing the question: With millions of citizens residing at sea level, what is obstructing the formation of a unified plan for the coastline’s future? As the film uncovers, the stakes have never been higher. Through its compelling storytelling, Shored Up not only informs but also engages viewers in a crucial conversation about our rapidly changing environment and the choices we must face.
Follow the complete movie timeline of Shored Up (2013) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.
Introduction to Rising Sea Levels
The documentary opens by establishing the urgent issue of rising sea levels and its impact on coastal communities. It sets the stage for a critical discussion about climate change, emphasizing the stakes involved for millions of residents living close to the ocean.
Filming in Long Beach Island
The film captures moments in Long Beach Island, NJ, showcasing sunbathers enjoying the beach and families indulging in ice cream. This serene image contrasts sharply with the environmental threats faced by coastal areas throughout the changing seasons.
The Aftermath of Hurricane Sandy
Filmed over three years, the documentary documents the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Sandy. It explores the destruction left in the storm's wake, underscoring the immediate consequences of climate change on coastal communities.
Conflict Between Surfers and Engineers
The narrative reveals tension between surfers and the Army Corps of Engineers over beach replenishment initiatives. While these efforts aim to protect properties from erosion, they often lead to altered surf breaks and ecological disruptions.
Transition to the Outer Banks
As the film shifts focus to the Outer Banks, NC, it delves into the pressing issue of sea level rise. This change highlights differing regional responses to climate threats and ongoing conflicts between development and environmental preservation.
Regulations and Opposition
The documentary discusses the progressive regulations in North Carolina designed to protect coastlines from overdevelopment. It examines the growing opposition to these regulations from political factions prioritizing development over ecological concerns.
Coastal Resource Committee Meetings
Tension escalates during Coastal Resource Committee meetings where developers attempt to silence scientific recommendations. This confrontation highlights the political struggles embedded in coastal management practices.
Interviews with Local Leaders
Throughout the film, interviews with local leaders like Deborah Whitcraft, Margaret Schram, and Jonathon Oldham provide personal insights into the community's challenges. Their perspectives underscore the complexities of navigating development amid rising sea levels.
Exploration of Coastal Development History
The film intertwines the history of Atlantic coast development, offering context for the current struggles faced by coastal towns. This historical backdrop serves to highlight the recurring themes of ambition versus environmental realities.
The Call for Transformative Change
As the documentary progresses, it emphasizes the urgent need for transformative change in coastal management. It poses critical questions about the future of communities at sea level and highlights the importance of unified planning for sustainability.
The Role of Scientists
The film features candid discussions with scientists who present data on climate change and its implications for sea level rise. Their insights serve as a foundation for the arguments advocating for better coastal management practices.
Public Engagement and Awareness
Shored Up makes efforts to engage viewers through various interactive platforms, including a mobile app and a website. These resources aim to raise awareness and inform the public about the importance of coastal preservation.
Consequences of Inaction
The documentary poignantly addresses the consequences of inaction in the face of climate threats. It reiterates the film’s central message that confronting the challenges posed by climate change is not only necessary but urgent.
Culmination of the Documentary
In its conclusion, Shored Up reinforces the critical conversation about our relationship with the coast. It urges viewers to consider the impacts of human ambition on natural forces and to advocate for responsible, sustainable practices moving forward.
Explore all characters from Shored Up (2013). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.
Deborah Whitcraft
Deborah Whitcraft is a local mayor featured in the documentary, representing the voice of her community and expressing the challenges faced due to climate change. Her insights reflect the struggle to maintain a balance between development and environmental preservation as rising sea levels threaten coastal living. She embodies the tension between local interests and broader ecological responsibilities.
Margaret Schram
Margaret Schram is another local figure highlighted in the film, showcasing the community's commitment to facing the realities of climate change. Her participation in town meetings illustrates the grassroots efforts to advocate for sustainable practices and raise awareness about the threats posed by environmental changes. Through her character, the film depicts the determination of residents to protect their homes.
Jonathon Oldham
Jonathon Oldham, a local mayor, is characterized by his proactive approach to addressing coastal concerns and engaging with scientific recommendations. He represents the informed leadership necessary for navigating development and environmental challenges as sea levels rise. His advocacy for sound policies showcases the importance of informed decision-making in local governance.
Learn where and when Shored Up (2013) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.
Time period
Contemporary
The film presents current issues regarding climate change and rising sea levels, illustrating the immediate effects seen in coastal communities today. It also reflects on historical decisions that have led to the current state of coastal management, particularly after events such as Hurricane Sandy.
Location
Long Beach Island, NJ, Outer Banks, NC
Long Beach Island, NJ, is known for its picturesque beaches and as one of New Jersey’s first beach resorts, attracting sunbathers and families. The Outer Banks, NC, is renowned for its stunning coastline and has been a focal point for progressive environmental regulations aimed at sustainable development. However, both locations face significant challenges due to rising sea levels and the impact of natural disasters.
Discover the main themes in Shored Up (2013). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.
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Climate Change
The documentary underscores the urgent need for awareness and action regarding climate change, particularly in coastal areas. It presents a stark reality of the consequences of inaction, as communities grapple with the ongoing threat of rising sea levels and extreme weather events. This theme emphasizes the duality of human ambition in developing coastal regions versus the relentless forces of nature.
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Political Struggles
The film highlights the political tensions surrounding coastal management and development regulations. It showcases the battle between development interests and scientific recommendations, illustrating how political pressures can hinder effective responses to environmental challenges. This theme reflects broader issues of governance and responsibility in addressing climate change.
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Human Impact
Shored Up explores the impact of human activities on coastal ecosystems, emphasizing the detrimental effects of construction and beach replenishment efforts. The documentary paints a vivid picture of how the desire for beachfront properties can lead to environmental degradation, altering surf breaks and threatening wildlife. It encourages viewers to reflect on the lasting consequences of their ambitions.
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