In January, UC Berkeley graduate students Zoe Anne Rosenblum and Matthew Busch embarked on a journey to Antarctica aboard the ice tug Argus. The pair, studying documentary film at the School of Journalism, traveled from California to capture footage for their thesis project. Their documentary, titled "Chasing Whales," aims to document scientists' work with whales and their environment.

The idea for the documentary emerged during "Philomathia Day," an event organized by Jennifer Redfearn, an Academy Award-nominated director and head of Berkeley’s documentary film program. The event featured discussions on climate change and its impact on marine life. It was here that Rosenblum and Busch were introduced to UC Santa Cruz professor Ari Friedlaender, whose research became central to their project. Funding for the documentary came from various sources including the Fine Cut Fund, Philomathia Prize, and the Pulitzer Center.

Redfearn praised the students' approach: “They had this unique perspective... They were approaching it from both a strong storytelling [angle] but also with a lyrical eye and a real sensitivity to the animal.” The film will include whale soundscapes, drone footage, and video from cameras attached to whales.

The expedition included researchers from universities such as UCSC, Duke, Stanford, and Miami. Each team conducted different studies; Friedlaender tagged humpback whales while others assessed heart rates or used drones for data collection. The privately funded expedition allowed for intensive data gathering aimed at advocating for whale protection.

Preparation for filming in such harsh conditions involved extensive planning. Beyond logistical arrangements like shipping equipment to Chile's tip or practicing filming techniques at Berkeley Aquatic Center, Rosenblum and Busch spent time building rapport with scientists before departure.

Their journey began early one morning with travel through Chile to King George Island before boarding Argus across Gerlache Strait into Western Antarctica. Onboard they captured moments of scientific discovery amidst breathtaking landscapes.

After nearly two weeks at sea, they returned with hours of footage ready for editing. In coming weeks they will screen "Chasing Whales" alongside other student documentaries focused on environmental issues supported by Redfearn’s Philomathia Prize.

Rosenblum expressed her hopes: “Even though it is a remote place we are all connected to it,” emphasizing Antarctica's importance both ecologically and globally.