The human species often assumes an inflated role as Earth's primary occupant. We treat this planet as if it's our own exclusive property and force other species to comply. This belief is called into question in the riveting new documentary, "After the Bite." Directed by Ivy Meeropol, recognized for her work on “Bully. Coward. Victim. The Story of Roy Cohn," the film presents a multi-dimensional view of human and animal relations, significantly more profound than your standard Shark Week content.
"After the Bite" delves into the age-old themes of human existence and our place on Earth, honing in on a shocking event in 2018. Arthur Medici, a young man, tragically lost his life to a shark attack near a beach in Wellfleet, Massachusetts. This incident was not an anomaly-sightings of great white sharks are increasing near the shores. The attack triggered a wide array of reactions. Some individuals sought to better understand the creatures, like the scientists who tag and track them. Others attempted to lay blame elsewhere, such as poor infrastructure, or the growing seal population that shares the waters with humans.
Rather than exacerbating the discord amongst the various perspectives, Meeropol’s film adopts an observant stance, showcasing the experiences of those intimately affected by this perilous ecosystem that doesn't cater to human safety. Numerous voices are heard: Suzy, a lifeguard, recounts her recurring nightmares of a shark attack; John, a local father, refuses to allow his surfing daughter back into the water after Arthur's demise, expressing his concerns at a town hall meeting about inadequate human protection. The documentary provides substantial food for thought, examining the issue from various angles.
The compelling narrative unfolds through a mix of interviews and observational footage. Meeropol captures Suzy's daily commute, fishermen discussing climate change's impact on their livelihoods, and even a seal's viewpoint as fishermen throw chum into the sea. In several succinct segments, "After the Bite" examines the differing roles in this complex situation. It scrutinizes a community divided by fear.
The documentary, seeking to offer more substantial knowledge about sharks than the famous "Jaws," delivers a thrilling encounter. A great white shark, a real-life antagonist, is finally seen close up, feasting on a whale carcass. This gigantic creature instills both fascination and terror as it swims past the boats and Noah.
The film's editing effectively juxtaposes various moods, enhancing the narrative's richness. It highlights how beach life can bring both joy, as seen in a shark-inspired burlesque show, and fear, in a tense moment when Suzy and her team suspect a fin in the water. "After the Bite" doesn't merely document a crisis, but the essence of a community dealing with it. Evidently, the people interviewed have been grappling with this issue for a long time.
One of the most impactful comments comes from surfer Dana. Dana works at the beach parking lot barefoot, amusing himself with drivers until he can join sharks in the water. He offhandedly remarks, "Humans need to learn humility in the face of nature." Subsequently, we watch him head out to surf, disregarding any sense of manmade security. This poignant scene concludes the documentary, leaving viewers to contemplate their own place in the natural world.
