My Octopus Teacher: science communication and storytelling

Have you seen My Octopus Teacher, the documentary film that everyone is raving about? What did you think about it?

I think it’s a fascinating insight into octopus behaviour and intelligence. It’s also a stunning example of science communication and storytelling.

There is a bit of a debate about whether the narrator should have put himself front and centre in the story, and the level of anthropomorphism (meaning the attribution of human characteristics or behaviour to non-human entities, including animals). I was uncomfortable about this at times, but I was equally moved by it. At the end of the day, and weeks later, I still find myself in awe and intrigued by this film. I keep returning to it in my mind and I wonder why. It’s made me curious.

If the aim of the film was to inspire people to dive deeper into the incredible beauty of nature and wildlife, I think it was a job well done. There is so much we have left to discover, so much we may never know, and so much we HAVE to protect.

This Australian Geographic article is an interesting read.

And if you haven’t watched the film yet, you can find it on Netflix.

Check it out and let me know what you think!