In an effort to capture our world in its most vulnerable state, directors Alastair Fothergill and Mark Linfield, the acclaimed creates of the Emmy Award-winning 'Planet Earth,' return with their mesmerizing tale Earth.
Serving as the debut film in the Disneynature series, Earth follows three animal families and their incredible journey across the planet that we all call home. From the dark arctic to the depths of the blue sea, every corner of the earth is dissected and showcased, providing for a broader understanding of our planet and the hardships that all its inhabitants eventually face.
Starting with the polar bear and ending at the humpback whale, the 90 minute documentary features a wide array of animals, from nearly ever walk of life. Birds embark on their first flying lesson, wolves stalk their prey and one unfortunate father fails in his attempt for survival; ultimately showing that in the wild, no animal is ever safe.
Beyond the educational aspect, which is prominent throughout the entire feature, Earth capitalizes on its cinematography. Pulled from over 4,000 days of footage, the film captures Earth's inhabitants doing things that have never before been caught on tape. And while you sit in a state of absolute awe, you can't help but appreciate the hard work that was put into creating such magnificent shots.
The waterfalls, along with the other priceless nature shots, are gorgeous in every aspect of the word. Their beauty and tranquillity reveal some of our planet's most hidden treasures, shining light on the vast differences between our home and those of others. The animals have it tough, that is easy to see, but the traits that we all share serve as a backbone to the feature, ultimately helping to bring film film's central message out of the shadows and into the sunlight.
Still, as the final family completed its journey, bringing the film to a close, I couldn't help but be disappointed. For once, a film of spellbounding visuals will not be debuting on the IMAX screens. Call me crazy, but if any film merits a watch on the biggest screen available, it is Earth. Regardless, the film is still extraordinary as it mixes education with fascination, ultimately providing the perfect viewing experience for persons of all ages.
*Be sure to stay into the credits as the directors reveal just how they were able to capture animals in such a primitive state.
