Into the Deep with National Geographic’s “Shark Attack 360” – Interview with Dr. Diva Amon

As World Ocean Day approaches, National Geographic is gearing up for this year’s SHARKFEST with an exciting lineup of 26 hours of programming content.  The festivities kick off on June 30 at 9/8c. SHARKFEST not only offers thrilling close encounters with sharks but also emphasizes the importance of conservation and ocean health.

One highlight is “Shark Attack 360,” hosted by Dr. Diva Amon, a National Geographic Explorer and marine biologist. Dr. Amon, who researches deep-sea species and human impact on marine habitats, leads a team of experts in investigating why sharks bite humans, uncovering surprising connections behind each encounter. Using a state-of-the-art VFX shark lab, they analyze data in forensic detail to understand the reasons for these attacks.

I had the opportunity to preview the series “Shark Attack 360” and interview Dr. Diva Amon to learn more about the film.

Question: How were the locations for filming chosen, and what factors were considered in these decisions?   

Dr. Diva Amon: For that, we have an incredible team to thank! During production, we research shark bites to find ones that offer interesting mysteries – which is the starting point for each episode. We then look for other encounters to see if they confirm or deny our emerging theory. The locations are entirely dependent on the stories.  

Question: How do you gather and verify personal accounts of shark attacks for your research?   

Dr. Diva Amon: The incredible production team to thank again! They spend months verifying the stories by talking to the people involved and checking independent reports. National Geographic requires very rigorous levels of fact-checking. 

Question: What have been some surprising or unexpected findings from these investigations?   

Dr. Diva Amon: It makes perfect sense given how central it is to life on Earth but I loved unravelling that the full moon likely has an effect on shark encounters. I’d just never considered it before. 

Question: What new insights or perspectives did you gain about sharks or filmmaking through this project?   

Dr. Diva Amon: I honestly learned so much from every episode! But if I had to choose just one, it would be that during a sand tiger shark’s pregnancy, the most developed embryo will eat, yes eat(!), its siblings. This is known as intrauterine cannibalism, aka adelphophagy, which literally means “eating one’s brother, and allows that embryo to grow big and strong because of the extra nutrients. I also loved using cutting-edge VFX technology to have these incredible and sometimes massive animals in the lab with me. Seeing the scale of some of these incredible animals continues to blow my mind. 

Question: What role do you see this film playing in shark conservation and education efforts?

Dr. Diva Amon: Sharks are extraordinary animals – and this series helps to show just how extraordinary they really are. More than that, even though they are powerful predators, the investigations in the show, backed up by decades of research, help the audience to understand the natural behaviour of sharks, which mostly don’t target humans; we just often get in their way. In fact, humans impact sharks much more than they affect us. We need them and the ocean needs them, and we must do more to conserve them.

“Shark Attack 360” within SHARKFEST is a captivating series that blends captivating storytelling with state-of-the-art special effects. This documentary takes a distinctive approach, immersing viewers in the thrilling world of shark encounters.

Through stunning visual techniques and expert narration, “Shark Attack 360” not only educates but also provides a close-up look at the behavior and habitats of sharks and their interactions with the marine environment.

For enthusiasts of marine life and adrenaline-pumping documentaries, “Shark Attack 360” is a must-watch. It captures the essence of underwater exploration and offers a thrilling journey that is both informative and visually stunning.  Available on platforms like Nat Geo, Disney+, Hulu, and more, the series ensures accessibility so viewers can enjoy its compelling content whenever and wherever they choose. Whether you’re a seasoned shark enthusiast or new to the world of underwater documentaries, “Shark Attack 360” promises an unforgettable viewing experience that showcases the beauty and awe-inspiring nature of these incredible creatures.

Here are the full list of the highlighted premieres from SHARKFEST:

“SHARK BEACH WITH ANTHONY MACKIE: GULF COAST”

• Nat Geo: Premieres June 30 at 9/8c
• Nat Geo WILD: Premieres August 2 at 9/8c
• Disney+ and Hulu: Available July 1

“SHARK VS. ROSS EDGLEY”

• Nat Geo: Premieres June 30 at 10/9c
• Nat Geo WILD: Premieres August 3 at 9/8c
• Disney+ and Hulu: Available July 1

“SHARKS GONE VIRAL”

• Nat Geo: Premieres July 1 at 9/8c
• Nat Geo WILD: Premieres July 30 at 8/7c
• Disney+ and Hulu: Available July 1

“SUPERSIZED SHARKS”

• Nat Geo: Premieres July 1 at 10/9c
• Nat Geo WILD: Premieres July 31 at 9/8c
• Disney+ and Hulu: Available July 1

“BABY SHARKS IN THE CITY”

• Nat Geo: Premieres July 2 at 8/7c
• Nat Geo WILD: Premieres July 29 at 8/7c
• Disney+ and Hulu: Available July 1

“SHARK ATTACK 360”

• Nat Geo: Premieres July 2 at 10/9c
• Nat Geo WILD: Premieres August 1 at 5/4c
• Disney+ and Hulu: Available July 1

“ATTACK OF THE RED SEA SHARKS”

• Nat Geo: Premieres July 7 at 10/9c
• Disney+ and Hulu: Available July 1