When I first saw the trailer for this I thought it looked good, but could they really build it out to the length of a feature? Well, following all of the good word that was building up around it, I decided I would have to see it for myself. So I did.
After seeing the movie, I have decided that it was definitely worth my time. It is a wonderful tale, personifying the perpetually tuxedoed birds. Told in a way that gives dramatic structure, it will get you involved makes you feel connected in some way.
The documentary tells the story of the journey taken by the Emperor Penguin to it's mating grounds, which can be up to 70 miles from where the journey begins. We follow the procession as the march in formation across the icy plains. They then search for a mate and the next stage begins. A family unit is formed, a bond is made. The mother and father work together to protect their egg. The story goes through all of the stages of separation, reunion, growth. All in a manner that is completely engrossing.
We get to track them through the ups and downs, the joy and the tragedy. The new family has many trials during the mating period. One problem is the deadly cold weather, which drives them together, there is the danger inherent in the transfer of the egg from mother to father, there is the young penguin who cannot survive the cold on it's own. Then there are the predators, those seeking to feast on penguin flesh, young and old. But there is the joy of watching the determination exhibited on the journey, the excitement of the newborn birds, the maturing process they go through. It is a wonderful story.
March of the Penguins is narrated by Morgan Freeman. He is the perfect voice for this, fatherly, friendly, all knowing (or as far as the script is concerned). I cannot picture another voice that could have brought about the emotions that are present. The voice goes a long way in helping a documentary hold your attention, to dry and you fall asleep, to flamboyant and it becomes annoying, this is a good example of that balance that works to draw you on.
Considering the palette is primarily black and white and shades of blue, it is gorgeous to look at. Despite the backdrop of snow and ice, there is still a lot to look at. Writer/director Luc Jacquet and his team, spent months shooting in the Antarctic region to get all of the necessary footage. They got right in there with the birds, as if the camera was one of them.
Bottomline. This is a wonderful film that the entire family can go to and enjoy. It is engrossing and funny and dramatic. The sell out crowd I saw it with loved every moment, the young children applauding when the credits came up. Definitely worth your time.
Recommended.
Also at Blogcritics.
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