Filmmaker Statement: Reflecting on Hurricane Ian and the Heart of Sanibel
September 29, 2022
As filmmakers, we set out to capture the vibrant, quirky world of seashelling on Sanibel Island—its beauty, its passion, and its community spirit. Today, in the wake of Hurricane Ian, we find ourselves humbled and heartbroken by the devastation that has swept across Southwest Florida, forever altering the lives of so many who call this place home.
ABC News: Hurricane Ian strikes Florida
Hurricane Ian was not just another storm. It was one of the most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history, leaving behind a scarred landscape and a deeply shaken community. As we write this, the beaches we walked on, the homes we visited, and the people who welcomed us with open arms are grappling with unimaginable loss.
A Changed Landscape, A Deeper Purpose
Sanibel Movie: Seashells.com following Hurricane Ian.
When we began filming Sanibel, the documentary was meant to be a lighthearted exploration of the seashelling culture—a story about passion and creativity in a world that celebrates life’s small joys. But as the storm raged and its aftermath became clear, the story shifted beneath our feet, much like the island itself.
Now, Sanibel has become something much larger. It is no longer just about seashells and the people who love them. It is about resilience. It is about how a community rebuilds when the foundation of its identity has been shaken. It is about the human spirit and the way it finds beauty and hope, even in the face of overwhelming grief.
The Strength of a Community
The people of Sanibel and the surrounding region have always inspired us. Through their love for the land, the ocean, and their unique way of life, they have shown us what it means to be truly connected to a place. In the wake of this storm, their strength and determination have left us in awe.
We are committed to telling this story with the respect and care it deserves. While the focus of the film has evolved, our mission remains the same: to celebrate the people and places that make Sanibel so special and to ensure their voices are heard.
Sanibel Movie: Capitan Brian Interview after Hurrican Ian.
Moving Forward Together
To the people of Sanibel and Southwest Florida: We stand with you. Your courage and resilience are the heart of this story, and we are honored to play a part in documenting your journey. This is not just your story—it is a story for all of us about the fragility of the world we love and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
As filmmakers, we are reminded of our responsibility to share not just the beauty, but the truth. Sanibel will now carry the weight of a moment in history that cannot be ignored. It will honor the past, reflect the present, and look forward to the future—a future where the love of shells, the coastline, and the community will find a way to heal and rebuild.
We thank the people of Sanibel for trusting us with your story. We are here with you, and for you, every step of the way.
With deep respect,
Jamie Winterstern & Kevan Rayden
Director and Producers of Sanibel