Parents' Guide to

The Dark Hobby

By Sabrina McFarland, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

Marine life docu deep dives into aquarium trafficking trade.

Movie NR 2021 73 minutes
The Dark Hobby Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

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age 5+

Based on 1 parent review

Regretful Pirates
Regretful Pirates Adult
May 22, 2021
age 5+

The Dark Hobby Review

Finally some attention is brought to this Dark Hobby and the impact it has on our Oceans. The Aquarium Industry is worth Billions while Trillions of life forms are removed from the reefs. With the Generations lost that can Never be Replaced.
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

THE DARK HOBBY is a documentary that exams the multibillion-dollar aquarium trafficking industry. It's a trade that involves destructive removal methods by collectors of exotic aquatic species and coral reefs from the sea for commercial profit. The film also features a diverse group of activists, scientists, and citizens who set out to protect the ocean and its marine life inhabitants.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say: (1):
Kids say: Not yet rated

This insightful film offers informative first-hand accounts from experts and concerned citizens about the global operations of aquarium trafficking. "The pipeline begins at the point of capture and it ends when the fish goes belly up in a home aquarium," says reef activist Robert Wintner in The Dark Hobby. And some individuals also believe that it's best for aquatic wildlife to remain in their natural habitat. "Don't take my fish and put them in an aquarium up in New York City or Tennessee or whatever," notes Miloli'i, Hawaii Mayor Wilfred Kaupiko. "That's not their home." The Dark Hobby skillfully opens its door for discussion by shedding significant light on the relevant subject about the destruction and conservation of marine wildlife.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the teamwork of the cast in The Dark Hobby. How do they also demonstrate compassion, courage, and perseverance? Why are these important character strengths?

  • What may be the long-lasting effects associated with the aquarium trafficking industry? Why are gill nets used by aquarium collectors, and what are the effects that they may have on marine wildlife?

  • What is the importance of marine wildlife and its role on Earth? What steps can you take to save the sea and its inhabitants?

  • How are fish social beings? In what ways are they similar to humans?

Movie Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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