During past year, I had the fascinating opportunity to serve as the marine science consultant for The Outrun, a film directed by Nora Fingscheidt and starring Saoirse Ronan. Based on Amy Liptrot’s acclaimed memoir, the film follows Rona, a young woman returning to the Orkney Islands after a turbulent period of alcoholism in London. Her journey toward healing becomes deeply entwined with the rugged beauty of the islands—and with seaweed!
Working with the film-team was a rare and inspiring experience. It was a true pleasure to collaborate with Nora Fingscheidt and the brilliant team that brought The Outrun to life. Nora’s commitment to authenticity and sensitivity in storytelling was matched by the dedication of the entire production. I also had the great privilege of sharing insights with Saoirse Ronan, who was eager to understand the rhythms and realities of a seaweed researcher’s life in order to authentically portray Rona’s reconnection with the natural world.
Seaweed plays a subtle but powerful role in the film. As Rona settles back into the Orkney landscape, she begins collecting and studying seaweed—an activity that reflects her inner transformation. Just as seaweed is shaped by the tides and thrives in challenging conditions, it becomes a symbol of resilience and adaptability. Through Rona’s growing fascination with this often-overlooked marine phototrophs, the film explores themes of healing, grounding, and rediscovery.
What makes The Outrun so special is the way it weaves the scientific and the emotional into a single thread. By incorporating real marine ecological elements and filming in authentic coastal settings, the film captures the wild, quiet strength of the sea—and of Rona herself.
It was an honor to help shape this aspect of the story and to bring the richness of marine life to a wider audience. I hope viewers will come away not only moved by Rona’s journey, but also with a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the quiet power of seaweed!
Enjoy watching The Outrun, brought to you by StudioCanal, in cinemas or from the comfort of your home via your favorite streaming platform.
Sophie Steinhagen - Seaweed Research 
During past year, I had the fascinating opportunity to serve as the marine science consultant for The Outrun, a film directed by Nora Fingscheidt and starring Saoirse Ronan. Based on Amy Liptrot’s acclaimed memoir, the film follows Rona, a young woman returning to the Orkney Islands after a turbulent period of alcoholism in London. Her journey toward healing becomes deeply entwined with the rugged beauty of the islands—and with seaweed!
Working with the film-team was a rare and inspiring experience. It was a true pleasure to collaborate with Nora Fingscheidt and the brilliant team that brought The Outrun to life. Nora’s commitment to authenticity and sensitivity in storytelling was matched by the dedication of the entire production. I also had the great privilege of sharing insights with Saoirse Ronan, who was eager to understand the rhythms and realities of a seaweed researcher’s life in order to authentically portray Rona’s reconnection with the natural world.
Seaweed plays a subtle but powerful role in the film. As Rona settles back into the Orkney landscape, she begins collecting and studying seaweed—an activity that reflects her inner transformation. Just as seaweed is shaped by the tides and thrives in challenging conditions, it becomes a symbol of resilience and adaptability. Through Rona’s growing fascination with this often-overlooked marine phototrophs, the film explores themes of healing, grounding, and rediscovery.
What makes The Outrun so special is the way it weaves the scientific and the emotional into a single thread. By incorporating real marine ecological elements and filming in authentic coastal settings, the film captures the wild, quiet strength of the sea—and of Rona herself.
It was an honor to help shape this aspect of the story and to bring the richness of marine life to a wider audience. I hope viewers will come away not only moved by Rona’s journey, but also with a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the quiet power of seaweed!
Enjoy watching The Outrun, brought to you by StudioCanal, in cinemas or from the comfort of your home via your favorite streaming platform.
Teilen mit: