Oceans - 2 1/2 smiles

Although the cinematography in “Oceans” is compelling, the script is insipid and the movie’s biggest weakness. One of the things I really liked about Disney’s older nature documentaries (e.g., True Adventures and those on the Disney TV show) is the compelling stories they told and their strong point of view. “Oceans,” directed by Jacques Perrin and Jacques Cluzaud, is more travelogue with interesting pictures. Issues that should cause worry are danced around. For example, in the second half of the film we see a shopping cart at the bottom of the ocean along with floating debris. Later we see an underweight polar bear trotting on the Arctic ice. However, more time passes before there’s a mention of the fact that the ice floe is melting, followed by brief concern about how the animals will survive. Narrator Pierce Brosnan observes: “Human indifference is the ocean’s greatest threat.” But that comment is just dropped in with little follow up. Oil drilling? Global warming? Is there anything we can do to protect the eroding oceans and their vanishing species? “The Cove” with its definite point of view makes for an emotionally moving documentary. “Oceans” goes in the opposite direction, juxtaposing powerful visuals with bland commentary. So if you’re going to see “Oceans,” you’ll enjoy seeing dolphins, sharks, and whales feeding on sardines while up above birds dive into the frenzy. But you really don’t need to listen to the narration because you won’t hear anything memorable.

With a G rating, there will be a lot of young children in the audience. And while many of the scenes are appropriate for the very young, there are some that aren’t. A large nest of baby sea turtles hatches and the newborns push their way into the world. They’re adorable, scrambling across the sand to the water. Unfortunately this happens during the bright light of day and without warning, a flock of birds drops from overhead, gulping down all but one tiny turtle. 4/21/10