This is my first ever review and I was compelled to do it on this one because my then 3 year old son has watched this documentary for more than probably 50 times! I want to tell the things what makes this piece so beautiful to watch and hear.
The breathtaking cinematography looks like they were taken with modern action cameras used in sports, characterized by the wide angle lens distortion and even sharpness. A multi-copter may have been used for the aerial shots. Some scenes call for better video stabilization. Colors are vivid. We have to put up with a short scientist footage shot in low video quality from a polar bear's point-of-view revealing a modern discovery. The polar bears are so close to the camera that one can almost feel their warm breath. The sound effects are crisp and clear, adding to the intimate closeness of the shots. This is HD at its best. View this in the living room HD screen. It's a crime to watch it any smaller screens!
The narration is filled with humor and affection, yet the situation you see will always remain serious and sad. Look forward to a polar bear activity where the narrator claims to have never been shot before.
The best thing about this documentary is the endearing music. My son would hum along with what sounds like a well-composed soundtrack, worthy of being used in human epic movies. I wonder if it was specially made for this documentary or just stock music. If they were special compositions, then a soundtrack album of this documentary would sell.