Holding Back the Tide

Holding Back the Tide

Year: 2024

Runtime: 1 h 17 m

Language: english

Director: Emily Packer

Documentary

"Holding Back the Tide" is a captivating documentary journey through the life cycle of oysters in New York City, once a thriving oyster capital. Through evocative storytelling and compelling queer characters channeling ancient mythology, the film unveils the forgotten history and fascinating biology of these bivalves that shaped the city's landscape.

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Timeline & Setting – Holding Back the Tide (2024)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Holding Back the Tide (2024). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Present day

The movie takes place in the current era, where New York City's waterways are facing the challenges of climate change, rising sea levels, and environmental degradation. It highlights the urgency of contemporary environmental efforts and the initiatives being undertaken to restore the natural balance of the ecosystem. The setting reflects a critical moment in history, where the effects of pollution and urbanization demand immediate action.

Location

New York City, Staten Island, Tottenville

New York City, with its extensive coastline and historic harbor, was once a thriving ecosystem filled with oysters, which played a crucial role in maintaining water quality. Staten Island, a borough of the city, has a rich history tied to oystering and is now home to projects aimed at environmental restoration. Tottenville, a neighborhood within Staten Island, is specifically involved in efforts to protect itself from rising tides and climate change impacts.

🏙️ City 🌊 Waterway 🦪 Oyster Habitat

Last Updated: May 14, 2025 at 06:38

Main Characters – Holding Back the Tide (2024)
Meet the key characters of Holding Back the Tide (2024), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Moody 'The Mothershucker' Harney

Moody is a charismatic street vendor who rekindles the relationship between the community and oysters, serving them as a beloved street food. His character symbolizes the democratization of food culture, making oysters accessible to the public. He embodies a connection to history and cultural reclamation.

🍴 Street Food 🌊 Community 🦪 Oysters

Sue Wicks

Sue is a former WNBA star who finds solace and purpose in farming oysters. Her character represents a break from traditional roles and highlights the intersection of gender and environmental stewardship. Her journey reflects a kinship with the oysters, emphasizing themes of empowerment and connection to nature.

🏀 Sports 🌱 Empowerment 🦪 Oysters

Last Updated: May 14, 2025 at 06:38

Major Themes – Holding Back the Tide (2024)
Explore the central themes of Holding Back the Tide (2024), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🌍 Environmentalism

The theme of environmentalism is central to the film, portraying the urgent need for sustainable practices to combat climate change. It emphasizes the importance of community involvement and collective action to preserve the city's natural resources. Through the lens of the oyster, the film highlights how individual contributions can make a significant impact on the ecosystem.

🍽️ Food Culture

Food culture is explored as the film delves into the history and contemporary significance of oysters in New York City. It challenges the elitism in the culinary world by showcasing how oysters can be reclaimed as a common food source accessible to everyone. The involvement of community figures like Moody 'The Mothershucker' Harney and WNBA star Sue Wicks illustrates the connection between food, environment, and identity.

Last Updated: May 14, 2025 at 06:38

Explore More About Movie Holding Back the Tide

Holding Back the Tide (2024) Plot Summary & Movie Recap

Holding Back the Tide (2024) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline