The award-winning film Rock the Boat is a document of environmental action, providing a case study of how advocacy can influence policy makers. Directed by Thea Mercouffer, the film follows a kayaking expedition on the Los Angeles River in order to prove the river can be navigated. The film examines the significant ramifications of a change in designation based on navigability, and it provides a background for understanding the importance of the river. This review discusses the film and the use of the film as a pedagogical tool.