Secrets of the Whales

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.

Enjoying every episode so far of this most excellent documentary. Others have covered it's high quality. I'll just add a couple of quibbles which didn't affect my score.

1- Sigourney's narration grew old. Way too saccharine at times. Also, don't call a mother whale "Mom". She's not your Mom.

2 - The "how they did it" segments were great but they don't always explain the under-water footage. Is that a photographer down there? Remote control device? Who are the belugas smiling at?

One concern is that they show pristine locations and I can just see tour guides taking people there and maybe ruining it.

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!

Shame. Mostly monosyllable kindergarten repetitive script is poorly delivered by narrator Sigourney Weaver - a good actress but not narrator. Thus, the interesting, indeed some enchanting rare photography and music score are ruined.

James Cameron is executive producer. He should have narrated as his voice displays genuine respect & fascination of whales in one bonus feature as he watches the highlights of film.

Instead of paying Sigourney Weaver high wage, use the money for a better script with more intelligent/Interesting facts & narrator with an interesting voice.

This show had great possibilities , showing true hidden nature & intelligence of whales, proving common myths wrong, showing culture & traditions. Yet, it's the narration that separates the "must see" ones. It's why elder Sir David is beloved- his vocal TONE & delivery remains entertaining, plus he mostly had well written scripts. Tom Hiddleston (Loki) is another with great voice and delivery. Comedian Tim Allen (Bud Lightyear in Toy Story films) did fine narration of chimps for Disney. Bill Murrey is another with great voice & timing ( Baloo in Jungle book).

No music score is needed when photography is fascinating, only natural sounds of whales & oceans. But constant narration of wrong voice can ruin best filmography.

Preteens & older will become bored with this series.

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?