Secrets of the Whales

I absolutely loved this heartwarming film. I learned so many secrets about whale culture.

Secrets of the Whales

With Sigourney Weaver's soothing voice, excellent cinematography, and education on these majestic creatures, this Nat Geo miniseries shows off Orcas, Humpbacks, Belugas, Narwhals and Sperm Whales up close and personal. They do show them feeding, but from a distance, and not the super gory way it truly is. I felt bad for those poor sea lions.

The footage from underwater is just so cool to see. The divers did a really good job for those shots.

I mean, it's a documentary about whales, so it's pretty straightforward, but I enjoyed seeing the creatures that are usually seen from a distance.

Each episode was beautifully produced and narrated but I was absolutely shocked that National Geographic presented an episode that refers to the Orca/"Killer Whale" as a whale. It's not a whale. It's the largest Dolphin, which is an entirely different animal.

I read a lot of the other reviews and noted almost every one of them commented on how much they learned. Wouldn't it be better to have said from the top that it's called the Killer Whale but it isn't actually a whale. Makes me wonder what else they put in the series that isn't correct.

National Geographic is known for it's gold standard. Why would you let this one slip through? Or did you reclassify the Orca without announcing it?

The footage is superb, and I welcomed the commentary by the divers. Perhaps half of the voice-over narration is informative but, sadly, much of it gets in the way of deeper understanding. Silence (and whale songs) are golden.

Have you ever been told that our oceans are very mysterious and that they hold many secrets that are likely to be hidden forever? Well, that's certainly true - our oceans are indeed mysterious and some of the most amazing secrets hidden deep within our oceans have recently been discovered and are ready to be shared with the world in a new National Geographic four-part documentary series. Secrets of the Whales spotlights four species of whales and uncovers their secrets and stories of survival with "first time" evidence and never-before-seen coverage. This series is epic and one you are going to want to witness!

Secrets of the Whales brings alive the visions of both Academy Award winning filmmaker and conservationist James Cameron and acclaimed National Geographic Explorer and Photographer Brian Skerry as they share their knowledge and research finding of some of the most intelligent giants living on our planet. Filmed across three years and in 24 locations, this documentary series, narrated by award-winning actress Sigourney Weaver, takes viewers on an amazing journey into the lives of orcas, humpbacks, belugas, and sperm whales. From Cameron and Skerry's work we gain such an expansive understanding and appreciation of whale family dynamics, social bonds, communication and tradition. It's the "secrets these mammals share which help them prevail."

This series has me completely captivated throughout all four episodes. Seeing the variety of marine life within their natural habitat is just jaw-dropping. With such stunning photography and action-packed video footage, the cinematography in Secret of the Whales is the best I've ever seen. As each scene is presented to viewers, you get a sense of being right there and consumed within each moment. To pick a favorite episode within this series would be impossible, since each episode is so unique with new secrets of the whales being unveiled to viewers.

The common message within all four episodes of Secrets of the Whales is centered around culture.

These whale families must work together in a sophisticated manner if they are going to survive and be successful as a species. Whales are highly evolved creatures that have the complexity of family bonds, language, feeding patterns, emotions and interesting secrets. It is critical that these traditions be taught to offspring and passed down throughout the generations.

I give Secrets of the Whales 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18. Adults, especially those interested in marine ecology and conservation will certainly appreciate these films as well. What a great way to celebrate Earth Day. Don't miss this series! Reviewed by Dominic D., KIDS FIRST!