Deaton’s “Showdown at Tiger Beach” Claims Awards in Three Categories at Best Shorts Film Competition
GALVESTON, TX
March 28, 2021
Paul Cater Deaton’s exciting documentary short, “Showdown at Tiger Beach” has won prestigious Awards of Merit in three categories at The Best Shorts Film Competition.
“Showdown” earned honors in the categories of Documentary Short, Nature / Environment / Wildlife, and Cinematography.
“The goal of ‘Showdown’ is, above all, to shine a light on the importance of shark conservation,” Deaton said.
The film contains electrifying scenes of close encounters with a dozen large tiger sharks and over 30 sharks of other species, in open water, without the protection of cages.
“It was exhilarating to film such magnificent creatures where they live,” Deaton added. “They came into contact with us several times during the filming, but it was out of curiosity and not about wanting to do us any harm.
The film was rendered in black and white, with special effects making it look like a television show from the 50s and 60s.
“It is a tribute to Lloyd Bridges, ‘Sea Hunt,’ and the black and white TV shows of my youth,” Deaton said.
The Best Shorts Competition recognizes film, television, videography and new media professionals who demonstrate exceptional achievement in craft and creativity, and those who produce standout entertainment or contribute to profound social change. Entries are judged by highly qualified professionals in the film and television industry. Information about Best Shorts and a list of recent winners can be found at www.BestShorts.net.
“Best Shorts is not an easy award to win,” said Rick Prickett, who chairs The Best Shorts Competition.
“Entries are received from around the world from powerhouse companies to remarkable new talent,” he said. “The Best Shorts Competition helps set the standard for craft and creativity. The judges were pleased with the exceptional high quality of entries.”
"Your storytelling drives curiosity and inspires us. You help bring people and space closer together."
- Meridyth Moore, Space Center Houston
"You were invaluable…and your footage is simply great. So pleased to have had the chance to work closely with you."
- Ellen Goosenberg, Academy Award-Winning Director
“Paul Cater Deaton fell in love with underwater photography when he was a small boy growing up on a Texas Ranch… watching classic television series like ‘Sea Hunt.’”
"It wouldn't be an ocean event without PCD Keynote! A huge thank you to the best Emcee a film fest could ask for, the one and only Paul Cater Deaton! It might be windy and snowy in Chicago right now, but we're still feeling all warm and fuzzy knowing we've got the best in the biz."
-WAVE Film Festival, Chicago
“You've seen him come face to face with tiger sharks. You've seen his award-winning documentaries. You've seen him as Agent 00, and now for an unprecedented 5th time, you'll see him as the master of ceremonies at Our World Underwater (2017). There have been others before, but no one does it better than Paul Cater Deaton! Don't miss this world-class film festival!”
— Our World Underwater
“Paul Cater Deaton is not your everyday guy with a video cam. He sees the big picture. This Texan, who lives in St.Thomas, is an award winning writer, producer, director, cameraman and talent - a one-man production powerhouse.”
— Dan Bostdorf, Virgin Voice Magazine
“From the opening scene (Lionfish, The Beautiful Outlaw) you know you’re in for something different. The interviews ground the film in quality insight, while the pacing and humor entertain as well as educate.”
— SCUBA Emporium News
“Paul Cater Deaton... takes viewers to the far corners of the globe and under the sea with skillful photography and wit.”
— St. John School of the Arts - VIP Mini Film Festival
“His lively narrative and stunning underwater shots captivated the audience, who asked him a number of questions and followed him even after his presentation.”
— Philippines Dept. of Tourism Press Release