Starring: Tilikum, Samantha Berg, John Jett
On the 24th of February 2010, veteran whale trainer, Dawn
Brancheau was killed during a show at SeaWorld Orlando by Orca, Tilikum. This
is far from an isolated case and this documentary explores the history of
keeping whales out of the wild and the devastating and dangerous consequences
for both themselves and for humans.
SeaWorld declined any of its representatives to be
interviewed for Blackfish and the reasons seem obvious as to why. Whilst a
documentary about a contemporary problem, Blackfish is far from the most
objective documentary, throwing around constant arguments against keeping
whales in what are basically theme parks. The arguments are compelling and not
without plentiful evidence, but I would've liked a more neutral position even
if I doubt anyone except SeaWorld's most die-hard supporters would go back to
one of their parks without giving it a second thought first.
The film in of itself does follow through on being
interesting despite the overt preachiness, showing a fascinating insight on whales
and providing a strong personal touch as we learn the backstories of most of
the interview subjects (many of whom are former animal trainers at SeaWorld).
The film also packs a great impact and has already had consequences in the
wider film industry (Pixar's upcoming Finding Nemo sequel, Finding Dory, has
just undergone a plot overhaul because, of Blackfish) but more sensitive
viewers may want to be aware that the film features a large amount of genuine
footage of attacks, some fatal, on both humans and whales. Given that the
sequences of whales attacking humans is mostly confined to one specific period
of a few minutes within the film, the content can be very distressing.
Blackfish isn't interested in neutrality, and the film is
let down by an often televisual look and feel, but for those who happen to
agree with the film-makers, Blackfish will be informative and provocative
viewing.
Next time, a special pre-release Sneak Preview of the
upcoming time-travel rom-com starring Doomhall Gleeson and Rachel McAdams,
About Time.
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