On May 15 at 3 p.m., the new documentary “On Sanibel: The Hurricane Diaries” will make its debut at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in Fort Myers, as part of the Fort Myers Film Festival. This compelling film, directed and produced by Sanibel resident Laura DeBruce, tells the inspiring story of the island’s resilience in the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.
The documentary features raw, first-hand footage from islanders who stayed behind during the storm, which severed the Sanibel Causeway and left widespread devastation. The film goes beyond the storm itself to focus on the strength, creativity, and love that helped the community rebuild in the wake of disaster.
“This film is not just about Hurricane Ian,” said DeBruce. “It’s about the incredible strength, ingenuity, and love that emerged afterward. Sanibel’s people didn’t just rebuild buildings — they rebuilt hope.”
Through personal interviews and never-before-seen footage, the documentary highlights the stories of residents, small business owners, and community leaders who rose to the occasion.
DeBruce began documenting the recovery efforts shortly after the storm, arriving by boat and bicycle with her husband, Jeff Blackman. Despite suffering a broken wrist on her first day — caused by an alligator sighting — she continued filming what she saw. With the help of her friend Diana Taylor and award-winning videographer Chad Hatcher, DeBruce brought the story to life.
“It was difficult seeing this beautiful island destroyed repeatedly,” DeBruce recalled. “But in every shot, I saw people who had lost everything, yet still displayed such compassion and strength. That, to me, is the heart of this story.”
The film’s score, composed by Emmy and Peabody Award-winning flutist Kat Epple, complements the film’s powerful themes of paradise, peril, courage, loss, and unity.
“My goal was to craft music that resonates with the visuals and the emotional core of the story,” Epple said. “The score reflects the emotional journey — from the beauty of paradise to the destruction, and ultimately, the resilience and unity of the community.”
Tickets for the premiere are $10 for general admission, with all-day and all-access passes also available. For tickets and additional information, visit fortmyersfilmfestival.com.
To watch the film’s trailer, visit https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=983090534031724.
The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is located at 2301 First St., Fort Myers.
