10/4/17. A great documentary about 3 species of animals found China. The cinematography is just out of this world! Don't expect to learn a whole lot of new information about the Panda, Snow Leopard and the Snow Monkey. Just enjoy the opportunity to watch these animals in their natural habitat doing what they do best - live.
... View MoreDecided to see this film after seeing clips on TV. I have been a fan of this kind of movie ever since Disney did them back in the 19 60's This film touched the kind of life led by several species of animals. My wife and I were moved and thrilled to be able to watch the excellent photography and hear the technicians explain what happened in the various situations. We heartily recommend this film to anyone (any age) who is able to focus for approximately 90 minutes.
... View MoreSkip my last paragraph for spoiler -- but if you are very sensitive you may want to read it. This is a beautifully filmed and narrated story of three families plus some additional animals who interact and/or hunt those animals. Lots and lots of "awww" moments.What I didn't like (actually hated): Snow leopards are, I believe, endangered. The mom snow leopard dies a slow death from injuries while hunting for her cubs. As far as I can tell the cubs were left to starve to death even though there was an animal rescue center connected with the movie. I watched til the very end hoping there would be something about saving the cubs -- then I came home and got online to search for the same but found nothing. I was supposed to go out to lunch with friends afterwards but was crying so hard (still am) that I had dry heaves and had to come home. Yes, I'm an adult. No more animal movies for me.
... View MoreGrade: A-Rating: G, 79 minutes In a Nutshell: Disney Nature presents a beautiful look at some fascinating creatures born in China. Narrated by John Krasinski (The Office: The Complete Series) , this eco- documentary illustrates the circle of life and introduces the world to some stunning locations and animals that most people will never get a chance to see in real life.I've been to China twice this past year and have fallen in love with its culture, topography, people, art, language, and food. It is an amazing country and this film offers a deserving spotlight. The film is full of "Awwww" moments.Timed perfectly for Earth Day 2017, a portion of ticket sales will be donated to the World Wildlife Fund.Uplifting theme: Family The circle of life and death The beauty and duality of nature: freedom vs. security Each of us is a part of a much larger story.Things I liked: John Krasinski offers a familiar, comfortable voice to walk us through the lives of the featured animals. He does a great job, although the script could have been even better. The golden snub-nosed monkeys steal the show. They're gorgeous and hilarious, providing delightful monkey mischief. One thing Disney Nature does very well is introduce children to things they could never see in a zoo. The Tibetan antelope, called chiru, provides the film with some epic moments and cinematography. My question: why don't the males accompany the females on their birthing journey to protect them? A crane in China is a symbol of longevity and fortune. It is believed that when a crane takes flight, it is carrying an animal's soul to another world. That theme and sentiment and used at the beginning and end of the movie. I love it when a film ties ends together. How do the photographers get those shots????? It's pretty incredible. You get to see gorgeous red pandas, black and white pandas, snow leopards, antelope, and monkeys. All adorable.Things I didn't like: This version of Disney Nature doesn't offer anything particular new to the nature story narrative. I wish we could have learned more about the animals, more facts and information. Humans project their feelings and descriptions on what's going on with the animals. Who knows if any of that is true. It's very predictable.Interesting lines: "China is a land of myth and mystery." – John Krasinski "Each life is just one beat in the beautiful cyclical rhythm." – John KrasinskiTips for parents: There are several scenes when animals and birds prey on other animals. Some animals die. Children need to learn about life and death, and this movie does not shy away from the brutal realities. Some fighting and bullying. No profanity. Thank goodness, animals don't swear. It's not all happy and beautiful. There are some sad moments. You see a mother give birth and later nurse babies. Your kids may have questions
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