Special Movie Review: Earth

It all comes down to a tilt … and a really big God.

As I watched Disneynature’s Earth, which opened on Earth Day, I was in awe of God’s amazing handiwork. I know that’s probably not the intention behind the making of this film, but all I could see was evidence of our Creator and how nature cries out praise to Him.

In the beginning—of the film, that is—the narrator explains that the earth’s 23.5-degree tilt toward the sun makes life possible on this great planet. I had to chuckle at the precision. How could such an angle result from a single explosion? I can imagine God’s great hand adjusting the position of earth, “hanging” this planet into space much like we would a picture on the wall and saying to Himself while tweaking the angle: “Almost there … half a degree more … perfect!” In my mind, a 23.5-degree slant is simply more proof that there is a Creator.

Going in to see Earth, I was prepared to have to filter out evolutionistic statements. But this film simply presents nature in all its glory, inserting scientific facts from time to time. James Earl Jones as narrator is brilliant, perfectly adding just the right dose of humor. Moviegoers will be charmed visiting ducklings as they fly for the first time; escaping to the rain forest to watch exotic birds put on their best dance moves for the ladies; and watching polar bear cubs adjust to their new surroundings.

The Disney project highlights three families: a polar bear and her two cubs; a humpback whale and her baby; and an elephant mom and her calf. We’re privy to follow along as the bears come out of hibernation and seek food. We cheer on the elephant duo and their herd as they spend weeks desperately searching for water. And we learn how astoundingly far the whale and her child travel for food and how instinct directs them.

Death is obviously part of the circle of life, and the filmmakers do not shy away from the reality of hunter and prey. However, they edited the scenes discreetly and tastefully (no pun intended). Children—and adults for that matter—will be sad to see animals get caught, but there is no gore.

This 90-minute film shows the most breathtaking scenery from around the globe. Earth is entertaining and educational, but it is inspiring above all. Global warming is only briefly mentioned, but it did remind me that we have dominion of the earth, and in that ownership there is a responsibility to take good care of what He has given us. I know there are even small things I can do to make a difference.

One final movie-going tip: It’s worth staying for the credits. Plus, for every ticket purchased during opening week, Disneynature will plant a tree in your honor.