Doc Based on David Kushner’s “Paradise Lost” Article in Development

Anchor Entertainment and Vanity Fair Studios have partnered to develop a documentary based on David Kushner’s “Paradise Lost” Vanity Fair feature article.

Kushner’s article tells the story of a five-acre patch of Fiji coastline. Two Australian surfer brothers and a local thought they’d found their own slice of paradise, until a deep-pocketed Chinese developer began digging up the offshore reef and a Silicon Valley-backed scientist swearing he could build the perfect surf break got involved.

Executive producers for the documentary are Anchor Entertainment’s Ethan Goldman and Dan Baglio; Vanity Fair Studios’ Agnes Chu, Helen Estabrook, Sarah Amos and Lexy Altman; and Kushner.

“On its surface, this is a thrilling David vs. Goliath tale centered on a five-acre patch of coastline in Fiji,” said Estabrook, global head of film and television for Condé Nast Entertainment. “Thanks to David Kushner’s cinematic storytelling, we’re introduced to those whose livelihoods depend on that slice of shoreline, and suddenly the stakes become much higher. It’s a classic Vanity Fair examination of power and what’s possible when people have the courage to challenge it.”

Goldman, founder and CEO of Anchor Entertainment, added, “Kushner’s investigative reporting presents a pressing urgency as it pertains to the complicated nature of global tourism. With this complex story, we aim to present a multi-layered eco-thriller, all set within the visually stunning backdrop of Fiji’s pristine yet fragile natural beauty.”