#EarthDay with Matt Goodman (mat_goodman) Matt Goodman and his team were drawn to filming the rare Dotterel, a bird species facing imminent extinction with a population of just 100. The film centers around Daniel Cocker, a ranger who has dedicated his life to raising awareness for these extraordinary birds since he was 14. Daniel’s passion and determination to save the Dotterel were evident from the moment the team learned about them. “These birds are curious, friendly, and resilient—a stark contrast to the harsh conditions they endure,” Matt says. The challenges were significant: the harsh southern ocean winds, rain, and gritty sand constantly pelting both the crew and equipment. But despite these conditions, Matt was struck by the Dotterel’s survival instincts. “Watching them use tufts of native grass to protect themselves made us appreciate just how adaptable and resourceful they are in such a wild, unforgiving place.” The story the team set out to tell was simple yet powerful: a ...