Documentary · 2018
The Film
One filmmaker, three years, and a question nobody in the balloon industry wanted asked.
Synopsis
We all know that dropping rubbish is littering. So why is letting a balloon go different?
Rubber Jellyfish is a feature-length documentary that explores the effects of helium balloons on the environment, wildlife and human beings.
Mum-to-be Carly Wilson sets out on a personal journey to meet key players on all sides in the fight to ban balloons, and exposes the confronting truth behind our favourite party product. As she travels around Australia seeking to understand the science and the various points of view, Carly discovers a range of issues, from the heartbreaking impact on sea turtles to the potentially deadly effect of helium on children.
Her journey takes her from littered beaches to the capital, as she speaks to activists, businesses and politicians to find out why the balloon problem is being ignored – and whether anything can be done.
The film at a glance
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Released
Theatrical release 26 September 2018. Now free to stream worldwide.
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Director
Carly Wilson, a wildlife carer and fauna spotter turned filmmaker.
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Budget
$13,210 – raised through crowdfunding and a Pollination Project grant.
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In production
Three years, across which the director had two children.
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Meet the filmmaker
How a masters student researching bat physiology ended up making a documentary about balloon release ceremonies.
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The science behind it
The studies, the statistics and the “100% biodegradable” claim the film set out to test.