Blackfish

BlackfishDirected by Gabriela Cowperthwaite 
My Opinion: mesmerizing

Black Fish tells the story of Tilikum, a male killer whale who has killed several people during his years in captivity. The film compiles emotional interviews and shocking footage that chronicles the blemished history of sea world, the cruel life of an orca in captivity and the stories behind the trainers who lost their lives.

This is one of those highly-critical documentaries that surfs the wave of liberal ideology and stirs up the nation. As it forms its poignant argument, the film fascinates with insight into what we know about orca's and how much remains a mystery. The highly-informative film moves very quickly, with the pacing of a psychological thriller rather than a documentary. The most harrowing moments involve a former whale-hunter's traumatized recollection of capturing calves forty years ago. Tilikum's own story isn't easy to watch either.

Unfortunately, Blackfish is about as black and white as the whales themselves. I think that the lack of opposition hurt the film, but with Sea World's refusal to grant any interviews, what could they have done? This is Sea World's letter in response to the documentary. I find it rather vague and wish they could speak on the specific points raised by this film, especially in regards to the human lives that have been taken.

Overall, this film is informative and engrossing. You'll be happy you saw it.