New documentary “Stranded” looks at how the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network is fighting to combat human impacts on marine mammals

For those in the Charleston, SC area familiar with the work of the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network (LMMN), you know what a gift they are to the Lowcountry. Working tirelessly in research, conservation and awareness of our marine mammal friends and neighbors is a testimony to the commitment to our planet and all living things.

This has not gone unnoticed. This spring, director Joshua Bruni will be premiering his documentary, Stranded that will bring the work of the LMMN to a much broader national and international audience. We invite you to learn more and follow the journey.

Film Description – Logline:

The Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network fights daily to combat human impacts to the marine mammals of South Carolina through the use of research, education, and awareness. 

Backstory and Documentary Narrative

Lauren Rust and Tracy Kowlacyzk, from the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network, are the only two people responsible for responding to stranded marine mammals along the whole coast of South Carolina. They also fight daily to combat the human impacts to marine mammals such as boat strikes, hand feeding, harassment, and more through research, education, and awareness.

Cast/ Crew:

• Joshua Bruni (Director/ DP)
• Geoff Insch (Drone Operator)
• Lauren Rust (Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network Executive Director)
• Tracy Kowlacyzk (Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network Marine Mammal Stranding Technician)

About the Director, Joshua Bruni

Joshua Bruni is currently in the MFA in Science/Natural History Filmmaking Program at Montana State University. This short ~15min documentary is his thesis film in order to graduate with his graduate degree in May 2025. Joshua Bruni is hoping to eventually become a professor at a University and continue to make wildlife based films. 

Distribution Details:

The plan is to do a premiere screening of the film in Charleston, SC and Myrtle Beach, SC area in the spring of 2025. Following the screenings there will be distribution of the film to film festivals across the world to share this untold story.

• Follow the Stranded development journey on Instagram.
• Please follow Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network in Instagram.

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