David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet

I was originally going to write that this is a breathtaking moral appeal from a wise man, but this isn't so much about morality as it is about actual survival and preserving whatever we have left (for now). I felt that David Attenborough wasn't really telling me anything new, but I still had a strong urge to listen to him carefully and look at a number of things from a broader perspective. Plus, you'd be hard pressed to find someone more vocal and well-travelled who has seen truly and literally first-hand how humanity has been ravaging plant and animal species across the planet over the past few decades. One of the few examples of a film where its very mission made an isolated impression on me. I've heard a lot of objections that this has all been said before and that David Attenborough is really just repeating himself. Sadly, I still don't feel that his years of appeals for environmental protection have produced the desired results, so two thumbs (and toes) up for any similar eco-documentary that will spread these ideas. [85%] (18/11/2020)

Is there any other documentary that everyone should watch in the XXI century? A strong statement by a wise gentleman that will sadden you, but which holds the necessary life-giving positivism of the appealing ecologist. Most of the praise is addressed not only at the “contents”, but also at the very execution of the documentary, it’s graceful connection of objective facts with a subjective appeal, the dramaturgical coherence, its intelligibility and the “minor details” like the gorgeous music and the breathtaking images. A great job and a very important message, which may have arrived late but it can also be a beginning. (15/10/2020)

David Attenborough, at the twilight of his life, has crafted a reflection on everything he’s witnessed, and with his vast experience as an explorer and naturalist, he lays it out plainly—things are bad, and a lot needs to change if we’re going to dig ourselves out. I couldn’t agree more with his message, and I hope the world takes inspiration from those leading the charge to reduce our carbon footprint. Yes, the change starts with us, and while I believe Europe is making solid efforts compared to places like the U.S. or Asia, it would be incredible if humanity could come together and tackle this as a united front. Otherwise, we’re doomed. The documentary is stunning—thoughtful, straightforward, and full of hope, the kind of hope we all need to motivate us to start making a difference. (11/01/2021)

An epitaph of humanity with room for a potentially successful future happy ending that is shrouded in uncertainty and question marks. Attenborough communicates it simply, engagingly and clearly. The idea is evident. An absolutely essential documentary that should not be missed by anyone. (31/10/2020)

David Attenborough puts an exclamation mark on the amazing series A Life on Our Planet. At the age of 94, it is a very personal confession of someone who was lucky enough to see a lot of beautiful things, and at the same time unlucky to have also seen them disappear. And you may wonder, who else but this admirable man should be explaining to humanity how stupid humans are and what can be done about it? If you only have to watch one documentary in your life, let it be this one. (05/10/2020)