David Attenborough’s Ocean: A Review

Published 11 months agoon May 27, 2025

Have you seen David Attenborough’s latest extravaganza, Ocean? It’s currently playing on the big screen.

As a diver, I’m sure you’re the same as us at Scubaverse—we were all really looking forward to seeing Sir David’s latest film. But we also wondered what the “normal” person on the street really thought of it. We couldn’t actually find a normal person, so we asked Adam Barlow—a recent journalism graduate, aspiring film journalist and podcaster, who currently teaches audio production at Bournemouth University—what he thought.

David Attenborough

Ocean – Review by Adam Barlow

Ocean, narrated by David Attenborough, is now showing on the silver screen with theatrically exclusive content—and it’s absolutely worth the price of admission.

Sir David Attenborough has graced our screens with captivating wildlife documentaries for eight decades. His wisdom and iconic voice are a comfort to millions. Series like Planet Earth, Prehistoric Planet, and Blue Planet have offered audiences unprecedented glimpses into wildlife past and present. He has visited over 80 countries and has long been a fierce advocate for the protection and preservation of habitats around the world. Now, in his 99th year, the legendary broadcaster returns to cinemas with his latest work.

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The film runs for 84 minutes, with an additional 11 minutes of behind-the-scenes footage. It takes viewers around the world—to California, Indonesia, Antarctica, and Hawaii—while directors Toby Nowlan, Colin Butfield, and Keith Scholey thoughtfully frame the story around the life of Sir Attenborough himself. He reflects on the invention of scuba gear and how our understanding of the sea has evolved over his lifetime:

“When I first saw the sea as a young boy, it was thought of as a vast wilderness to be tamed and mastered for the benefit of humanity. Now, as I approach the end of my life, we know the opposite is true.”

At its core, the film delivers a poignant message about the destruction caused by bottom trawling and industrial overfishing. Cameras placed inside large nets reveal the staggering extent of damage being done to coral reefs and seagrass meadows. Destructive fishing practices are not only legal but often encouraged. As Sir David observes though, it’s difficult not to lose hope. This makes Ocean essential viewing—an urgent exposé that aims to educate, inspire, and awaken.

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Yet, the film also offers hope. It highlights how quickly marine ecosystems can recover when left undisturbed. Areas with active conservation efforts show remarkable results. This shift in narrative brings the film to a powerful, emotionally charged crescendo.

The abundance of sea life is mesmerising. Unique species of all shapes and colours appear in montages accompanied by a soaring score from composer Steven Price. Some scenes are so breathtakingly beautiful they may move viewers to tears. Highlights include the most detailed footage of plankton and coral ever captured, coverage of the largest mass coral bleaching event, and stunning visuals of the biggest school of yellowfin tuna ever filmed. Every time-lapse, drone shot, and close-up is awe-inspiring.

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Filming took over two years, and the production team employed innovative techniques—such as a tow camera used to track travelling dolphins. Director and producer Toby Nowlan remarked:

“I truly believe that if millions of people see this film, we could make history—we could fully protect a third of the ocean and change the course of our future.”

The upcoming 2025 UN Ocean Conference in June could be pivotal in rallying global support for ocean conservation. Sir David’s final narration is passionate, tinged with frustration, and deeply moving. His vulnerability gives the documentary incredible weight as the credits roll.

While Ocean will be available on Disney+, National Geographic, and Hulu from 8th June, I highly recommend seeing it on the big screen—where its full impact can truly be felt.