Review of Blackfish (2013) by Charlie M — 19 Feb 2015

Part expose and part psychological thriller, Gabriela Cowperthwaite's Blackfish is a testament to the dangers of meddling where we don't belong. Specifically regarding SeaWorld's treatment and capitalization of killer whales, the film reveals a nefarious thread of misuse, misinformation, and apathy.

In making its argument, the film balances personal accounts with the opinions of field experts, and the result is persuasive, driven as much by agenda as by compelling evidence. In dealing with specific incidents, the film falters occasionally into educated if not not tenuous speculation, where as much speculation could likely exist in opposition.

These incidents give the film its sensational persuasiveness, but it uses them only as illustrations of a larger and more-consuming contention. Debating whether or not these fatalities are the result of trainer error or aggressive orca behavior is beside the point, and Cowperthwaite instead takes the high ground by rising above technicality and speculation.

She makes the bold claim that these fatalities are the ultimate result of the systemic exploitation of extremely dangerous animals for commercial profit. This is documentary filmmaking at its most impassioned, most riveting, and most unapologetic.