5 MOVIES TO WATCH BEFORE TRAVELLING TO THE MALDIVES
When people think of the Maldives, the first images that usually come to mind are white sandy beaches, aquamarine lagoons, and coral reefs full of marine life. And while those things are true, the Maldives is also a country with a rich history, strong communities, and very real environmental challenges.
Whether you’re planning your very first visit or returning for another adventure, the Secret Paradise Maldives team have selected five films they believe are worth watching before you pack your bags. They’ll not only entertain you but also give you fresh perspectives on island life, the wonders of our marine world, and the challenges we face in protecting them.
1. Chasing Coral (2017 Documentary)
Directed by Jeff Orlowski
Why watch it?
Coral reefs are often described as the rainforests of the sea, and this film shows both their beauty and their fragility. With powerful imagery and personal stories, Chasing Coral explains why reefs are disappearing at an alarming rate, including here in the Maldives.
How it connects:
When you join us for snorkeling tours, you’ll see how we support reef conservation by following Green Fins practices and sharing information about coral ecosystems. Watching this film gives you the background to better understand the importance of what you’ll see underwater.
2. Seaspiracy (2021 Documentary)
Directed by Ali Tabrizi
Why watch it?
This film takes a hard look at global fishing and the strain it puts on marine life. While some of its messages are debated, it raises important questions about overfishing, bycatch, and the health of the oceans.
How it connects:
Fishing has always been part of Maldivian culture and is still central to daily life and the economy. The Maldives is recognised worldwide for its sustainable pole-and-line tuna fishing, a traditional method that avoids bycatch and supports local communities. Watching Seaspiracy gives you global context, while travelling here shows you what sustainable fishing looks like in practice. On our tours, we also highlight how small actions from avoiding single-use plastics to respecting marine life while snorkeling fit into that same bigger picture of protecting the ocean.
4. Our Oceans (2024 Documentary Series)
Narrated by Barack Obama, directed by Jonathan Smith
Why watch it?
This series captures the wonder and diversity of the oceans, from the smallest organisms to the largest marine mammals. It also highlights the need for conservation and sustainable fishing, issues that directly affect the Indian Ocean and the Maldives.
How it connects:
When you’re here, you’ll encounter the same incredible marine biodiversity showcased in this series. Understanding the global threats facing our oceans helps put into perspective why the Maldives’ reefs and lagoons need protecting.
4. The Maldives: Paradise Lost? (2009 BBC Documentary)
Why watch it?
This film looks at the Maldives in a way many travelers don’t usually see, balancing the beauty of our islands with the real risks of climate change and environmental pressures.
How it connects:
It echoes our own philosophy of responsible travel. By understanding the challenges behind the postcard image of the Maldives, you can travel in a way that contributes to the islands’ resilience and long-term future.
5. The Island President (2011 Documentary)
Directed by Jon Shenk
Why watch it?
This documentary follows former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed during his campaign to draw the world’s attention to climate change. It shows the Maldives not just as a holiday destination but as a country on the frontline of rising sea levels.
How it connects:
For us, sustainable tourism is not just a phrase it’s essential. By seeing the Maldives’ vulnerability through this film, you will better understand why your choices and actions matter.
Ready to travel deeper?
These films are more than entertainment. They provide context, spark curiosity, and help you see the Maldives with fresh eyes. When you arrive, the colors will feel brighter, the conversations richer, and your experiences more meaningful because you’ll already understand what makes these islands special but also fragile.
At Secret Paradise Maldives, we connect you with local communities, guide you through our reefs responsibly, and share the real stories of life in the Maldives. Watch these films, reflect, and then come experience the islands for yourself story by story, island by island and reef by reef.
