Nat Geo Greenlights Jacques Cousteau Feature Doc

National Geographic Documentary Films has partnered with the two-time Academy Award-nominated director Liz Garbus (What Happened, Miss Simone?) and the Oscar-winning producers Dan Cogan (Icarus) and Evan Hayes (Free Solo) for a documentary feature about Jacques Cousteau, the famed ocean explorer.

Tentatively titled Cousteau, the doc will feature never-before-seen 4K footage from the Cousteau Society’s archives, providing audiences a glimpse into the remarkable life of the renowned explorer, who was behind some of the world’s most significant contributions to marine conservation. The documentary, which marks the beginning of a first-look deal between National Geographic and the Cousteau Society, is slated to commence production this spring.

Carolyn Bernstein, executive VP of scripted content and documentary films for National Geographic, said: “Jacques Cousteau was a conservation pioneer whose advocacy to protect our oceans dovetails perfectly with National Geographic’s core values. We are honored that the Cousteau Society has entrusted us with this treasure trove of personal footage. Together with Liz Garbus, Dan Cogan and Evan Hayes, we hope to create a fitting tribute to Cousteau’s legacy that will celebrate his life’s work and unparalleled contributions to oceanography.”

Garbus said: “As a little girl, I watched Jacques Cousteau in wonder and amazement every Sunday night. He brought cameras into a strange, wild and beautiful world few had ever seen, and nobody else had ever filmed before. He inspired me to dream and imagine my own unseen worlds. I want my children’s generation to get to know this transcendent figure, to dream their own dreams and to be inspired to love and preserve the natural world just as he was.”

Francine Cousteau, president of the Cousteau Society, added: “We are excited to work with National Geographic, Liz Garbus and this amazing film team. Our goal is to help people understand and appreciate the fragility of life on our water planet. This film will not only honor Jacques’ legacy, but also further our message of conservation.”