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Pioneering Marine Biologist Illuminates the Ocean's Depths
12 Nov
Summary
- Marine biologist Dr. Edith "Edie" Widder has explored the ocean depths for decades
- Widder has discovered wondrous sources of bioluminescent light in the deep sea
- Widder documented the first-ever footage of a live giant squid, measuring 2-4 stories tall

In the past few years, marine biologist Dr. Edith "Edie" Widder has been making remarkable discoveries in the ocean depths. For decades, Widder has been diving in submersibles that can plunge a thousand meters below the surface, exploring the pitch-black waters and documenting the incredible bioluminescent creatures that call this environment home.
Widder's pioneering research and remarkable career are now the focus of a new documentary, "A Life Illuminated," directed by Tasha Van Zandt. The film served as the closing-night feature at the recent SFFILM's Doc Stories festival in San Francisco. In addition to Widder's groundbreaking work on bioluminescence, the documentary also reveals her historic footage of a live giant squid - a creature that can measure up to 2 to 4 stories in dimension.
The SFFILM festival also featured a range of other acclaimed documentary filmmakers, including Oscar winners and nominees. But it was Widder's story that captivated audiences, shining a light on her lifelong passion for exploring the ocean's mysteries and bringing them to the surface.




