About this film

Oscar-winning actor J.K. Simmons narrates “Relentless,” the fascinating true story about remarkable people tackling an exotic species invasion that nearly destroyed the largest freshwater ecosystem on Earth: the Great Lakes. The silent predator devastated jobs and businesses, threatening the survival of cities, towns and indigenous communities across the region.

The film traces how tenacious scientists identified the menace then struggled to control it. Their work continues to influence the Great Lakes region’s economic fortunes and sounds a warning about how invasive species threaten the future of vital natural resources and the prosperity of millions around the world today. Detroit premiere.

After the films: On Friday, Brian Kaufman, executive video producer at the Free Press, talks to filmmaker Thomas Lindsey Haskin. On Sunday, Neal Rubin, Free Press columnist, talks to Haskin. 

WHEN + WHERE

4 p.m. Sat., April 13, Birmingham 8 Powered by Emagine

1 p.m. Sun., April 14, Michigan Science Center (IMAX)

Not available virtually

FILM CREDITS

Director:
Thomas Lindsey Haskin

Producers:
Thomas Lindsey Haskin

Writer:
Thomas Lindsey Haskin

Cinematographer:
Thomas Lindsey Haskin

Editor:
Rich Ford,
Thomas Lindsey Haskin

Composer:
Mark Charles Hattersley

Executive producer:
Marc Gaden, Ph.D.

Running time:
1 hour, 31 minutes

Country of origin:
USA

Year:
2023

Film website

Festival history:
Duluth-Superior Film Festival, Thunder Bay International Film Festival, Ely Film Festival, Blue Water Film Festival, many others

Award history:
Barcelona Planet Film Festival, Best Documentary and Best Screenplay. Nature Without Borders International Film Festival, Outstanding Excellence.