Texas rivers take center stage in a new documentary flowing into theaters. “Deep in the Heart 2: Texas Rivers” journeys through the springs, creeks, rivers, and bays that shape the Lone Star State, introducing audiences to remarkable wildlife while exploring the challenges facing our water.
We Are Austin’s Trevor Scott welcomed writer and director Ben Masters to share the inspiration behind the follow-up to his 2022 Texas wildlife documentary and what he hopes audiences discover along the way.
Watch the full video above for our conversation with Ben Masters and a breathtaking look at “Deep in the Heart 2: Texas Rivers.”
We Are Austin’s Trevor Scott welcomed writer and director Ben Masters to share the inspiration behind the follow-up to his 2022 Texas wildlife documentary and what he hopes audiences discover along the way.
Why Texas rivers?
Masters and his team spent three years capturing the state’s waterways and the wildlife that depend on them. The film travels from the Rio Grande to the Sabine and Neches rivers while also examining the relationship between water, wildlife, and a growing Texas population.
For Masters, the subject is also personal. He grew up around Texas waterways and has described rivers including the Canadian, Brazos, Guadalupe, Rio Grande, and Colorado as the settings for major memories throughout his life.
“Deep in the Heart 2: Texas Rivers” journeys through the springs, creeks, rivers, and bays that shape the Lone Star State, introducing audiences to remarkable wildlife while exploring the challenges facing our water. Film Still Courtesy Fin and Fur Films.
Meet the wild characters
The documentary tells its story partly through the animals that call Texas waterways home.
Audiences will encounter river otters, mountain lions, alligator snapping turtles, turkeys, whooping cranes, and more.
And there’s another familiar Texan guiding viewers through it all: Austin-born, Academy Award-nominated actor Ethan Hawke narrates the film.
“Deep in the Heart 2: Texas Rivers” journeys through the springs, creeks, rivers, and bays that shape the Lone Star State, introducing audiences to remarkable wildlife while exploring the challenges facing our water. Film Still Courtesy Fin and Fur Films.
See it on the big screen
“Deep in the Heart 2: Texas Rivers” opens in Texas theaters Sept. 25. Austin Film Society is also hosting Masters and members of his team for a special opening-night screening at AFS Cinema.
Visit the Deep in the Heart website to find screenings, learn more about the film, and explore ways to support Texas waterways.
“Deep in the Heart 2: Texas Rivers” journeys through the springs, creeks, rivers, and bays that shape the Lone Star State, introducing audiences to remarkable wildlife while exploring the challenges facing our water. Film Still Courtesy Fin and Fur Films.