Chasing Ice (2012)
10/10
A Must Watch!
30 November 2020
Chasing Ice is the first nature documentary I have ever fully watched, and it did not disappoint! I grew up paging through my classroom's National Geographic magazines, an event that I believe sparked my interest in topics concerning our climate and wildlife.

The documentary itself is visually outstanding. It began with news reports acknowledging the problem at large: the terrifying truth of global warming. I believe news reports were inserted to present that although terrifying, the fact that our world is changing is the cold truth (pun intended). They act as a 'second opinion' and provide insight on how our population is handling this situation.

Beautiful exterior shots of ice and glaciers captivate each viewer, I had even audibly gasped at a few. My younger self would be drooling on the floor if she were to see the cinematography. Don't get too wound up though, following thoughts of the fact that such natural beauty can go away begins to loom over your shoulder. It was definitely an "aw, oh wait, this is not good," moment. I am a firm believer that each shot was included to force the audience to look at nothing but our natural world. Such visual appeal will lead us into extending our thoughts about how crucial it is to take care of our earth, the documentary almost forcing us to acknowledge this societal dilemma.

As all documentaries, secluded shots of the cast play as each member is interviewed. However, each shot feels personal, as if you were directly talking to them. Not to mention, the film's main character, Balog, makes the documentary even feel comforting. He truly connects with the audience as we see his personal life happen before our eyes. As Balog and his team venture on expeditions, further emotional appeal comes into play. A beautiful addition as it is an opportunity for the audience to empathize with the cast. In all honesty, I would have lost interest if Balog's struggles and personal experiences were not included. The film would feel too much like an advertisement, pushing us to make change and shaming us if we did not feel the need to. The elements of this documentary tackling the issue of climate change while sharing the life of one who is passionate about the topic is an effective way to influence viewers that they too can hop on the train of helping our world!

Due to the problem that is clearly evident, you can not help but feel as if something is looming over you. The document had me anxious, just waiting for the worst that is yet to come. Despite the film's beauty, it is most definitely haunting as it progresses. Shots of melting glaciers acted as nature's cry for help: Save me! I'm dying! Nervousness builds up inside of you, and I had wanted this to all be fictional just so there could be a happy ending.

Overall, Chasing Ice is a mesmerizing yet evocative cry for help. Help only we can initiate.
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