These two pictures are currently available to stream on Disney+
Disney has a lengthy history producing non-fiction films chronicling the lives of various animal species. Just over a decade ago, they founded Disneynature, a specific branch made to develop these documentary projects. The distributor had planned on theatrical releases for the two features prior to the coronavirus outbreak but have now made them available to stream on Disney+. The first title is largely set in the dry and unforgiving Kalahari Desert, while the second takes viewers under the water near the Polynesian Islands in the Pacific.
Elephant follows a herd on an arduous trek over many months across the sand and salt plains of the Kalahari. This is all for the species’ annual migration to find water and nourishment. The central story focuses on elderly leader Gaia, her younger sister Shani, and Shani’s one-year-old infant pachyderm, Jomo, a very cute and playful youngster who has never made the journey before. Gaia heads the amazing journey, leading the group based solely on her memory of the pathway. Between moments of playfulness, the picture captures the many dangers as they attempt to reach their destination. Besides fighting dehydration, they must also pass through areas filled with predators like lions and hyenas.
The footage has been cut together and narrated (in this case by Meghan Markle) to anthropomorphize the elephants. Obviously, relatable behaviors and similarities exist between us and these animals, but the script does get hokey at times, forcing the voice-over artist to act out and present human rationalization for their choices. To be fair, the material is delivered as well as it can be and there are some interesting facts about the species interjected, but the “story” as presented is definitely geared towards young viewers. The message being repeatedly delivered is that Jomo should always listen to and follow his mother’s rules in order to stay safe. While it’s certainly true and the sentiment may please parents, the movie is less-than-subtle about delivering its message.
Thankfully, it’s gorgeous to behold. The filmmakers capture amazing close-up footage of the elephants interacting, so much so that you can see and practically feel every wrinkle on their skin. There are stunning vistas as well, with incredible shots of the desert and salt plains that consistently amaze. Additionally, the movie includes remarkable overhead drone photography of the herd, with some standout images of the immense Victoria Falls. Even if the narration is sometimes eye-rolling, the footage itself is first-rate. And for parents worried about the fates of the animals and the potential for serious harm, the filmmakers avoid showing the more chaotic and brutal side of nature. The only passing in the movie that occurs is presently gently, and comes as a result of natural causes.
Even though the setting is very different, Dolphin Reef is very much the same kind of picture in terms of style and approach. In this case, narrator Natalie Portman introduces us to Echo, a three-year-old Bottlenose Dolphin and his mother, Kumu. Kumu’s main concern appears to be teaching Echo how to catch food and take care of himself. As in the previous feature, Echo occasionally disobeys his parent, getting himself into trouble. The movie also introduces a humpback whale and her calf (who undergo a similar series of threats), and presents comic relief with a mantis shrimp given the personality of an obsessive compulsive neat-freak.
Once again, the makers avoid presenting any truly violent scenes or harm that might befall the lead characters. It also presents some curious bits of trivia (while this wasn’t focused upon or intended, this reviewer was struck by how many aquatic species are described as more than happy to eat their own kind). And once again, the movie looks fantastic, from the brightly colored fish to the beautiful coral reefs, which are even reflected in shots pointed upwards towards the surface of the water.
Yes, the narration in both of these features is corny. However, it’s not the fault of either performer, but rather the script. For many adults, the big takeaway will be that Disneynature wants kids to always conform to the orders of their mom (and that there are a whole lot of cannibals living under the sea). Still, for nature buffs and families both of the films are worthy and provide some breathtaking scenery. And it’s admirable that the films also may excite youngsters and get them interested in the preservation of pachyderms and the underwater ecosystem. In the end, Elephant and Dolphin Reef aren’t perfect, but they’ll certainly entertain and relax families looking for something to watch together during this unusual time.