Film inspired by "Baywatch" officially
selected for the International Film Festival 2025
Varna 20.05.2025. The short
film "Charlie the savior" that was inspired by true events from the
filming of the world's #1 TV series "Baywatch", is officially
selected by the 21st International Festival of Red Cross and Health Films 2025
under the theme “Humanity every day in a changing world!”
From over 2.000 film
submissions, 228 films representing over 80 nations were approved for
screening at this historic Film Festival that this year celebrates its 60th
year. “Charlie the savior” will be screened among other Health films.
All
stories are important. Especially those that teach us how to be safe. In 1997, 12-year old Charlie Hayes, asked his mother to visit the
set. It was a death wish as he was suffering from terminal cancer. He met the
legendary creator of the world’s #1 TV series, Greg Bonann. He
received love and learning that prolonged his life. This film explains how the
death of a child inspired the creation of the “International Water Safety
Program”.
The program is a comprehensive
resource that protects thousands of children internationally from drowning, as
part of the project “Safe Greece” with the support of the Princess Charlene
of Monaco Foundation. It is approved by the International Swimming
Hall of Fame, the International Life Saving Federation, the Royal
Life Saving Society Commonwealth, the International Federation of
Swimming Teachers' Association, A Chance for Children Foundation, and
the World Open Water Swimming Association.
The film was narrated by Andy Pappas,
illustrated by Nikos Kouremenos and produced by the Greek
Lifesaving Sports Association.
Film Director is Dr Stathis Avramidis,
a 2-times award winner at the International Swimming Hall of Fame, Secretary
General of the Mediterranean Lifesaving Confederation, Teacher of Lifeguarding
and Lifesaving Sport in Athens University and President of the Greek Lifesaving
Sports Association.
The protagonist of the film, Bonann wrote:
“Charlie the savior is an elegant expression of my vision to create an
International Learn-to-Swim Program. Stathis' touching tale hopefully may serve
a higher purpose; to save many children from drowning!"
Avramidis commented: "I am grateful
for Greg Bonann, the IFRCHF Selection Committee, its President Ilko
Raev the unsung hero, Dr Svetla Lefterova, and the Bulgarian Red Cross
President, Hristo Grigorov. Thanks to them, the film was created, will
be screened, and may save more lives. This is the only goal and the most essential recognition of the
film."
Τhe Film Festival, organized by the Bulgarian
Red Cross and the Medical University of Varna, is in the same Category
A with the Festivals of Canes and Venice. Humanity every day in a changing
world!
More: International Festival of Red Cross and Health Films | 21-st Edition 2025 | 60 YEARS
