Coral Sea Dreaming: Awaken

This exquisite sequel to 1992's stunning Coral Sea Dreaming (VL-7/94) offers some of the most beautiful images ever captured among the world's great coral reefs. Emmy award–winning cinematographer David Hannan shot over 1,000 hours of digital video during more than 2,000 dives in the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo Reef, and Papua New Guinea, and his film sounds an urgent alarm for conservation: 70 percent of all coral reefs have now been destroyed or are threatened by pollution, global warming, and rising acid levels in our oceans. While much of the low-key narration conveys alarming statistics, Coral Sea Dreaming: Awaken also offers plenty of astonishing detail about the life forms on display. Decorator crabs build elaborate costumes “like walking flowerbeds”; flatworms float “like flying carpets”; and up to seven million species co-exist through a seemingly unlimited variety of “strange alliances and odd fashions,” many involving breathtaking camouflage. Some of the marine life is familiar—sharks, octopuses, seahorses, and pipefish—but many species seem alien, especially the bizarre, bioluminescent creatures that appear at night. Allowing viewers to choose between narrated or un-narrated (music-only) versions—making it both informative and relaxing—this cautionary tale is a visual wonder to behold. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Shannon)