My Octopus Teacher

My Octopus Teacher

After years of swimming every day in the freezing ocean at the tip of Africa, Craig Foster meets an unlikely teacher: a young octopus who displays remarkable curiosity. Visiting her den and tracking her movements for months on end he eventually wins the animal’s trust and they develop a never-before-seen bond between human and wild animal.

  • Released: 2020-09-04
  • Runtime: 84 minutes
  • Genre: Documentaries
  • Stars: Craig Foster, Tom Foster
  • Director: Philippa Ehrlich, James Reed
 Comments
  • gower-campbell - 13 February 2024
    My Octopus Teacher
    "My Octopus Teacher" is a breathtaking exploration of the intersection between the human and natural worlds, offering a profound and emotional journey into the depths of the ocean. Directed by Pippa Ehrlich and James Reed, this documentary captivates from the first frame to the last, weaving a narrative that transcends the typical boundaries of nature filmmaking.

    The film follows the incredible bond formed between filmmaker Craig Foster and an octopus in the kelp forests of South Africa. What begins as an underwater adventure transforms into a deeply personal and transformative experience for both man and cephalopod. The documentary beautifully captures the intricate behaviors and intelligence of the octopus, bringing to light the remarkable connection that evolves over the course of a year.

    The cinematography is nothing short of mesmerizing, with underwater shots that transport the audience into a realm of wonder and mystery. The filmmakers masterfully use the camera to convey the intimacy and vulnerability of the octopus, allowing viewers to share in Foster's awe and reverence for the natural world.

    The storytelling in "My Octopus Teacher" is a triumph. It goes beyond the confines of a typical nature documentary by delving into the emotional and spiritual aspects of the relationship between man and nature. The pacing is deliberate, creating a contemplative atmosphere that allows the audience to absorb the profound lessons imparted by the octopus and the oceanic ecosystem.

    The film's sound design is impeccable, enhancing the immersive experience with the rhythmic ebb and flow of underwater life. The musical score complements the visuals, accentuating the emotional beats of the narrative without overpowering the natural soundscape.

    "My Octopus Teacher" is a testament to the power of curiosity, connection, and the enduring magic of the natural world. It not only expands our understanding of marine life but also invites reflection on the broader themes of humanity's relationship with the environment. This documentary is a true masterpiece, leaving an indelible mark on the genre and the hearts of its audience. A must-watch for nature enthusiasts, documentary aficionados, and anyone seeking a poignant and unforgettable cinematic experience.

    #OceanicWonder #FilmEditingFlow #NatureFilm #OctopusTeacherJourney #FilmDirectorDiary #UnderwaterAdventure.
  • mmmc-35772 - 15 August 2023
    One of the best Documentary we've ever scene
    We watched because it was up for Best Documentary. And won! We just watched it again tonight Two years later and it was still magnificent A must watch The relationship between the man AB's the octopus is a real " love story" of sorts A teaching story for his son Amazing footage that is mesmerizing and his ability to dive and hold his breath to swim with the octopus is so precious My family gives it a 10 Out of 10 for show It's playing on Netflix but you must search under Documentaries It brings a true appreciation for the oceans and kelp forests and all the sea creatures that live it. Two thumbs up for sure ! Inspiring and incredible filming

    My Octopus Teacher is a must see for everyone.
  • guyvidal - 5 January 2023
    Exhilarating & Touching
    As far as the natural world is concerned, Craig Foster is the ideal human: he's gentle. He's curious, compassionate, noninvasive... and gentle. We need more human beings like Foster. To hear his voice crack as he describes the love an octopus can elicit from a human with her sheer curiosity, innocence, playfulness... made me unable to choke back my tears. Craig Foster dives year round without a suit in water so cold it takes your breath away. But after a while the cold starts to energize him, breath life and energy into his body and clarity into his mind. He returns every day - it's addicting. It calms his mind and body down. It relaxes him. He forgets all his earthly troubles. He's completely at peace. This state of complete relaxation and gentleness is felt so keenly by all the creatures around him, from tiny mollusks to pajama sharks, that he merges with the life around him. The energy emanating from this gentle human creature co-opts the sharks, seduces the seals and otters who roll around with Craig. This is the in my opinion the best and only way to be human.
  • nowheregirl-296-201595 - 6 July 2022
    Wth....
    This was torture. Reminds me of that "bystander syndrome" where you see someone getting hurt and nobody steps in to help but has time to grab their phone and hit "record"... yea this is that documentary.

    This documentary bothered me on so many levels. This guy does nothing to help the octopus- let's her basically get eaten alive. He goes on about his love for her, touches her and holds her and has this "relationship". All I see is this poor animal show affection and get used by this man. Octopus are genius creatures, smarter than dogs. So, if you want to see a documentary where its borderline cruel and one sided this is for you.

    This man had no problems injecting himself into the animal kingdom and build this intimacy, but when she struggles and is getting attacked he does nothing but watch. You know this poor animal was thinking what the hell.... There's a part where he says he feels responsible too, well guess what he should feel guilty.

    So yea, this is supposed to be a touching film- but no... it's definitely not. You will be left wanting to kick this guy in the nuts.
  • SebastianFors - 14 March 2022
    Beautiful documentary
    This documentary showcases a special bond between a filmmaker and an octopus. He opens up to the audience about his own faults and how this octopus made him rethink core parts about his life and relationships.

    If you don't care about the narrator being vulnerable and growing as a human, you can at least appreciate the amazing footage of underwater creatures.