This feature-length National Geographic documentary was given a brief cinema run, and once it establishes the sheer majesty and sweep of the underwater world, it does not take long for the harsh realities of human behaviour and its effects to be hard-hittingly presented. The biggest emotional impact of the film lies in revealing the destructive horror of industrial metal bottom-trawlers and huge floating factories, juxtaposing thriving lush ecosystems with scenes of bleak annihilation to devastating effect. The film relishes in its use of full widescreen and stunning extra long shots in order to convey the scale and beauty of the oceans, which it achieves to great effect, with its focus on discovery, diversity and connections. Giving the film the gravitas of his own later-life reflections, Attenborough's narration is of course calmly disturbing yet reassuringly positive, but even the third act's demonstration of the positive impact of protected reserves on regenerating ecosystems feels cautious in the face of what has been shown earlier in the film. The vibrancy of colour and macro-detail, alongside a dreamy and classy music score, makes for a captivating and absorbing viewing experience that makes its message very clear indeed.
No comments:
Post a Comment