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Caviar Dreams

Over the centuries caviar (i.e. - sturgeon eggs) was strictly reserved for Russian Czars and royalty throughout the world. Nowadays it’s become synonymous with wealth, fame, and indulgence. But why is that? What's so special about caviar? "Caviar Dreams" delves into the complex world of caviar, weaving a tapestry of caviar tales that leaves you knowing more than you ever thought possible about this unique delicacy. Beyond the assumed glamour and luxury associated with caviar, we uncover a story about over-fishing, poaching, near extinction, and a quest for sustainability.

  • Brian Gersten
    Director
    The Amazing Mr. Ash, The Hollerin' Contest at Spivey's Corner
  • Liv Dubendorf
    Director
    Win or Lose, The Hollerin' Contest at Spivey's Corner
  • Wei Ying
    Director
    Atomic Retro Customs
  • Brian Gersten
    Producer
  • Liv Dubendorf
    Producer
  • Wei Ying
    Producer
  • Inga Saffron
    Key Cast
  • Dirk Fucik
    Key Cast
  • Jeff Hinshaw
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Documentary, Short, Student
  • Runtime:
    15 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    March 29, 2017
  • Country of Origin:
    United States
  • Country of Filming:
    United States
  • Language:
    English
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    Yes
Director Biography - Brian Gersten, Liv Dubendorf, Wei Ying

Brian Gersten, Wei Ying, and Liv Dubendorf are all graduates of Wake Forest University's Documentary Film Program. "Caviar Dreams" is the product of their collaborative thesis project. Brian is an award-winning director who got his start at Kartemquin Films, and has worked in almost every facet of documentary film-making over the last five years. Liv started her career in reality television, before discovering her passion for documentary storytelling. Wei is originally from China and has worked in the documentary film industry in both her home country and the US.

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Director Statement

All of us have our own ideas about what caviar is, who eats it, and why it has the reputation it does. Some of us have tried it, some of us would like to try it, and others never have and never will. In any case - whether you’ve eaten caviar or not - this delicacy can tell us a great deal about human nature, and can give us important insights into the relationship we have with our food. "Caviar Dreams" focuses on the historical and cultural significance of caviar in the US and abroad, while commenting on the environmental impact of producing caviar and the need for sustainable farm-raised sturgeon in order to protect wild populations. It shows how our desire for luxury is at variance with the sustainability of that luxury. Ultimately, we hope to give audiences a greater understanding and appreciation for caviar and its role in society.