David Attenborough’s Ocean documentary has a scene straight out of Dune
David Attenborough’s latest documentary, Ocean, takes viewers on a journey beneath the waves to explore the interconnectedness and beauty of the world’s oceans. Released in select Canadian theatres and streaming on Disney+, the film showcases the grandeur, fragility, and community of marine life.
One of the striking moments in the documentary is the portrayal of bottom trawling, likened to a destructive sandworm from Frank Herbert’s Dune. The destructive practice, akin to grinding the sea floor indiscriminately for fish, highlights the harsh reality of industrial fishing on Earth. Attenborough, who turned 99 this month, emphasizes the importance of the ocean as the most critical place on Earth.
The film captures the vastness and diversity of marine ecosystems, from giant seamounts in the open ocean to mesmerizing coral reefs and swaying kelp forests. Ewan Trégarot, a marine ecologist and underwater photographer, shares his awe at the profusion of life and dynamism in these underwater worlds. The documentary aims to dispel the misconception that the ocean is too vast to be harmed, emphasizing its fragility and susceptibility to human impact.
Ocean also sheds light on the unequal protection of marine resources, with Indigenous and coastal fishers struggling to compete against large commercial operations. The film advocates for the establishment of marine protected areas (MPAs) to promote sustainable fishing practices and protect marine biodiversity. Experts like Akaash Maharaj stress the importance of effective enforcement and permanent protection of MPAs to ensure the conservation of marine ecosystems.
As the 2025 UN Ocean Conference approaches, Ocean serves as a timely call to action to address the pressing threats of overfishing, pollution, and climate change. With a collective effort, we have the power to protect and preserve our ocean for future generations. The documentary challenges viewers to recognize the significance of ocean conservation and the role each individual plays in safeguarding our planet’s most vital resource.
