Review of Blackfish (2013) by Uncatena — 02 Aug 2014
A very well made, well-written documentary that only comes short in that it comes across as a political piece rather than a balanced report. The filmmakers pushed to dig out the full story of Tilikum and clearly tried to get all sides of the story on the table, so that effort has to be praised.
There is also incredible footage of the orcas in their natural habitat providing stark contrast to enclosure life. But what is lacking is a clear reckoning of the value Sea World brings to conservation and to animal wellbeing outside the tank.
Agreed we should free the orcas (or put them in open water enclosures), and certainly let's tighten OSHA regulations. But without a more balanced view of the contributions these parks bring to animal welfare it comes across as a shrill piece of Hollywood activism, leaving the viewer to wonder if everyone had a say.
That's unfortunate, because this is a very good film.
This review of Blackfish (2013) was written by Uncatena on 02 Aug 2014.
Blackfish has generally received very positive reviews.
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