David Attenborough’s Ocean Documentary: A Deep Dive into the Plight of Our Seas

David Attenborough’s long-standing commitment to environmental activism takes a profound turn with his latest documentary, Ocean. In this poignant film, which comes to cinemas this week on 8 May, the beloved broadcaster and naturalist brings a new urgency to the topic of ocean conservation. It is, he argues, not too late: the ocean is not only capable of a quicker recovery than previously thought, but it holds the key to everything. ‘If we save the sea, we save our world,’ he says. ‘‘After a lifetime of filming our planet, I’m sure nothing is more important.’ Ocean serves as both a love letter to the seas and a rallying cry for their preservation, emphasising that the health of our planet hinges on their survival.



At the heart of the documentary is the devastating impact of industrial fishing. The film exposes how practices like trawling tear through marine habitats, leaving ecosystems in tatters. Coral reefs, teeming with life, and the ocean floor, a delicate web of biodiversity, face relentless destruction from methods designed to maximize profit at the expense of nature. The statistics are stark: fish stocks are plummeting, and entire species are at risk as overfishing disrupts the delicate balance of life beneath the waves.



Yet, the narrative is not one of despair. The documentary highlights the ocean’s remarkable capacity for recovery – provided we act swiftly. From the establishment of marine protected areas to the adoption of sustainable fishing practices, the film argues for innovative solutions that offer hope. These efforts, supported by scientists and conservationists, demonstrate that change is possible if we prioritise long-term stewardship over short-term gain.

As ever with Attenborough’s legendary documentaries, the visual storytelling is nothing short of breathtaking. Viewers are transported from vibrant coral gardens to the shadowy depths of the ocean, every frame underscoring the beauty and fragility of these environments. This artistry is paired with a narrative that doesn’t shy away from hard truths, urging viewers to reconsider their role in the global fishing industry and its broader consequences.



Embedded within this story is a reminder of the ocean’s critical role in sustaining life on Earth. “The seas are the foundation of our world,” the film’s narrator intones, a sentiment that resonates deeply in an era of environmental reckoning. The documentary calls on everyone – policymakers, industries, and individuals – to rethink their relationship with the ocean and take meaningful action.

Ocean is a wake-up call. It challenges us to act before the damage becomes irreversible, offering a vision of a future where the seas thrive once more. Do go and see it: this documentary is a powerful testament to why the fight for our oceans is one we cannot afford to lose.

Ocean comes to UK cinemas on 8 May