The Last Reef 3D: Cities Beneath the Sea

IMAX Melbourne presents a film directed by Luke Cresswell a Steve McNicholas
Narrated by Jamie Lee
Running Time: 40 mins
Rating: G
Released: Out  Now

8/10

The Last Reef 3D Cities Beneath the Sea is latest eco-documentary from the creators of Wild Ocean that highlights the plight and important role that reefs play around the world.

Just as vital as the rainforests on land, reefs play a key aspect to biodiversity and as mankind continues to fill the air with carbon dioxide, the result is ocean acidification which will have a detrimental effect on sea life.

This inspirational documentary is narrated by Jamie Lee who helps deliver the message that mankind has almost reached the point of no return to stop the acidification of our oceans.

The strongest theme of this documentary is that it is not too late to reverse the destruction caused by man as The Last Reef 3D begins at a very unsuspecting the place on Earth.

This place is called the Bikini Atoll and between 1946 to 1958, the United States tested more than 20 nuclear weapons on this sight. However before the destruction of this Atoll, it boasted one of the most amazing reefs in the world.

Although it was annihilated by nuclear testing, 50 years later, the reefs have returned and as a result, so have its inhabitants. It's quite fascinating to see something so destructive as a nuclear bomb return to life several years later.

Even though there is a message of doom and gloom in The Last Reef 3D, there are several moments of joy and inspiration. The filmmakers explain to the viewer how reefs are created which are actually thousands of polyps that not only assist in protecting wildlife but also our shores.

Then you have the amazing wildlife that live among the reefs which the are almost like underwater cities of New York with its thousands of inhabitants from fish to other strange creatures.

Add in the beautiful 3D cinematography that looks amazing on IMAX and  the story of The Last Reef 3D is not only a visually treat but also true soul food. The most memorable seen of the documentary are seeing the underwater sculptures of people by Jason deCaires Taylor and how the reefs have claimed these sculptures.

Add in the wondrous macro photography of the colourful polyps and sea snails and it's like watching some alien world come to life that looks quite stunning!

Final Thoughts?

The Last Reef 3D Cities Beneath the Sea is a fascinating documentary with a powerful message that needs to be heard! From destruction to life, The Last Reef 3D proves that it is not too late to change our ways.