Common Sense Media Review
By Sabrina McFarland
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Marine life docu deep dives into aquarium trafficking trade.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Dark Hobby
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?
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
- On DVD or streaming : May 21, 2021
- Cast : Wilfred Kaupiko , Ben Williamson , Robert Wintner
- Director : Paula Fouce
- Studio : Paradise Filmworks
- Genre : Documentary
- Topics : Activism , Animals ( Ocean Creatures ) , STEM
- Character Strengths : Compassion , Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Run time : 73 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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