The feature documentary, Bite to Bite by local Austin filmmaker Kelly Lipscomb, celebrated its World Premiere at the Austin Film Festival. Lipscomb not only directed the film but also served as Director of Photography and one of the producers, alongside Matt Tisdale and Robbie Schallert. From the Canadian waters to Japan, the film follows a fisherman’s catch as it travels to the market for auction. For someone who may not be familiar with fishing or what it takes to make a living as a fisherman, this is a very entertaining and engaging story—one that feels very timely as well.

There are so many films to choose from at the festival, and I am so glad I had the opportunity to see this one. It is not simply about catching fish and selling them. There is so much to learn about what goes into being prepared to make a living from fishing, the rules, the requirements (and lack of them in some cases), and the investment of time, effort, and energy. The scenery is also captivating, both aerial and underwater scenes. While the film does not delve deeply into the issues it raises, it had a significant impact on me by increasing my appreciation for the complexities of fishing as a livelihood, and it is a valuable learning experience that may inspire others to pursue further education and action.

About: Bite to Bite chronicles the journey of one giant Bluefin tuna from the frigid waters of Nova Scotia to the sushi tables of Japan as two lifelong Canadian fishermen and a scientist from Texas set off to follow their fish halfway around the globe to the world-famous Tsukiji seafood market in Tokyo. Along the way, the film offers a rare glimpse into the controversial yet lucrative world of Bluefin tuna, interweaving tales of overfishing, sustainability, and how traditional fishing communities are staying afloat amid an increasingly corporatized global fishing industry.

Screening Date (Second Screening): Tuesday, October 28, 2025, at 6:30 pm- Galaxy Theater 6 with a Q&A to follow the screening. Runtime: 77 Minutes

Editors: Jonathan Grubbs, Austin Reedy

Composer: Curtis Heath

Source: Austin Film Festival