Immotion, a global leader in immersive edutainment, is celebrating the success of its VR film Dolphins of the Reef, which has been awarded Best of VR by the Los Angeles Film Awards (LAFA).
This production initially set out to tell a tale of the fragile beauty of the world’s coral reefs, from the perspective of Dr. Shireen Rahimi, a coral reef specialist and researcher. However, while documenting coral ecosystems, the crew witnessed unusual dolphin behaviour around the reefs. This unexpected twist inspired the team to extend the storyline.
Immotion asked Dr. Angela Zintener to shed light on this amazing interaction between dolphins and coral and broaden the scientific viewpoint.
Based in Hurghada, Egypt, Dr. Ziltener is a marine biologist who specialises in bottlenose dolphin behaviour in the Red Sea, which is home to some of the most exquisite coral reefs on Earth. Her specialist knowledge and the abundance of coral reefs in the area made her the ideal collaborator for this documentary.
Mission-aligned, inspiring content
Ken Musen, vice president of content at Immotion, says: “Partnering with scientists like Dr. Rahimi and Dr. Ziltener is what makes our work so exciting. It never ceases to amaze me how every project continues to teach us something new — in this case a unique relationship between dolphins and coral.
“The recognition from LAFA is a testament to the power of combining conservation science with state-of-the-art storytelling.”
See also: Immotion: where VR entertainment meets conservation education
Rahimi says: “What made the project so special was the collaboration itself. Working alongside Immotion’s creative team and Dr. Angela Ziltener bringing together science, storytelling, and technology in a way that was not only fun, but deeply meaningful.
“Watching how dolphins interact with corals reminds us how connected all life truly is—and I hope this film inspires more people to care about protecting these ecosystems.”
Immotion continues to raise awareness of conservation and education through its immersive virtual reality experiences, crafting memorable adventures that connect visitors with the natural world.
With 135 installations across the globe, Immotion is dedicated to creating mission-aligned content that inspires the next generation to preserve the environment while advancing the educational objectives of zoos, aquariums, science centres, and museums.
Earlier this month, Immotion shared details of its significant expansion in the European market, working with new major partners such as Whipsnade Zoo, Palma Aquarium, and London Zoo.