Mediterraneo: The Law of the Sea (2021) is a Spanish-Greek drama directed by Marcel Barrena, inspired by the real-life efforts of the NGO Proactiva Open Arms. The film portrays the humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean Sea during 2015, focusing on the plight of refugees and the individuals who risked their lives to save them.
In the autumn of 2015, Spanish lifeguards Òscar Camps (played by Eduard Fernández) and Gerard Canals (Dani Rovira) are moved by the harrowing image of a drowned Syrian child on a Mediterranean beach. Determined to prevent further tragedies, they travel to Lesbos, Greece, where they encounter thousands of refugees fleeing conflict, attempting perilous sea crossings in fragile vessels. Despite the dire circumstances, they find a lack of organized rescue operations.
Joined by a team including Esther (Anna Castillo) and Nico (Sergi López), Òscar and Gerard establish a grassroots rescue initiative. They face numerous challenges, from the indifference of local authorities and the complexities of international regulations to the dangers posed by people-smugglers who often sabotage boats to force rescues. A pivotal moment in the film is the depiction of a tragic sinking on October 28, 2015, which profoundly impacts the team and underscores the urgency of their mission.
- IMDB Rating - 6.5/10
- Director - Marcel Barrena
- Writers - Marcel Barrena, Òscar Camps, Danielle Schleif
- Stars - Eduard Fernández, Dani Rovira, Anna Castillo
