Since there is no message board for this documentary I had to post a comment. Anyway, I thought this documentary was pretty good. I enjoyed the filming since it brought out the vibrant colors of the ocean and the marine life, and I did learn some things I didn't know before. However, I do wish the film was longer and I would have been better if it went into more detail and touched more on the lives of a wider variety of ocean life. So for a documentary it wasn't what one would expect, and in comparison to other documentaries about the sea and it's creatures I have seen it is rather weak. However, I wouldn't say it is awful or not worth seeing. It just could have been better, I think I may have enjoyed it more if I actually saw it in an IMAX theater how it was intended.
14 Reviews
Beautiful underwater documentary
Horst_In_Translation28 February 2016
Warning: Spoilers
"Into the Deep" is a 34-minute documentary from over 20 years ago that takes us on a unique journey into the beautiful world of life underwater. While I would say that the film may have been a bit more informative occasionally, this is really just a minor criticisms. We get some interesting facts and the video recordings are nothing short of breathtaking. The film also ends on a high note with the statement that no matter if humans or animals, no matter if at land or underwater, we are all one and we need to be careful because if we destroy certain areas, we destroy ourselves in the long run. The animals in here aren't really fluffy or cute, so maybe this is not such a great watch for younger audiences, but they are extremely fascinating nonetheless. I highly enjoyed the watch and very much recommend it. Thumbs up for Howard Hall, Matthew Hart and this IMAX documentary. i cannot believe it did not receive any awards attention whatsoever. What ignorance. A truly atmospheric watch and I felt most of the time I was really down there deep in the water with the animals.
Into the depths of the ocean
TheLittleSongbird9 November 2022
1994's 'Into the Deep' is one of several documentary short films presented in IMAX 3D. These short films are mostly quite interesting, but their overall quality is of the flawed and inconsistent but generally worthwhile kind. The effects have also varied. Underwater is always fascinating, often re-visited in nature documentaries but it never feels old when re-visited and a lot is learned almost every time without being recycled. One really cannot get enough of wildlife and such under the sea
On the whole, 'Into the Deep' was pretty well done. It is far from being one of the best IMAX 3D documentaries and has a few major debits. 'Into the Deep' has many fantastic things however, and they do far outweigh the debits. The subject and location may not be new, but really liked the approach taken with the material and admired what was done to make it accessible, none of it felt old hat either.
Am going to start with what could have been done better. Like most of the IMAX 3D documentaries, 'Into the Deep' does feel too short. With a lot of content, this could very comfortably have been 20 minutes longer perhaps which would have given the viewer more time to take in the information and also learn more.
With the length being too short, there is always the risk of the film etc in question of being over stuffed and rushed. Both were the case in 'Into the Deep'. Do agree as well regarding more variety (or at least a wider one) being more welcome.
However, so much is fantastic. It looks incredible for one thing, with the photography being particularly awe-inspiring. The Undersea world dazzles visually, those gorgeous colours, though one is aware without being beaten round the head that it poses daily challenges for the wildlife. This is also one of the more successful IMAX 3D nature documentaries when it comes to the 3D effects, which actually doesn't look cheap, too gimmicky or/and too reliant upon.
The music, with an accessible style, is relaxing in some parts while having some edge in other parts. The animals are a great mix of adorable, formidable and exotic.
When it comes to the information, it is very educational without preachiness or being gimmicky and is delivered incisively and sincerely with not a false note. Familiar content still being approached freshly, and in a way that will captivate and never disturb kids while not being cookie cutter. More to this than beautiful wildlife in a beautiful habitat.
Perfect 'Deep Sea 3D' is not, but there is a lot to admire. 7/10.
On the whole, 'Into the Deep' was pretty well done. It is far from being one of the best IMAX 3D documentaries and has a few major debits. 'Into the Deep' has many fantastic things however, and they do far outweigh the debits. The subject and location may not be new, but really liked the approach taken with the material and admired what was done to make it accessible, none of it felt old hat either.
Am going to start with what could have been done better. Like most of the IMAX 3D documentaries, 'Into the Deep' does feel too short. With a lot of content, this could very comfortably have been 20 minutes longer perhaps which would have given the viewer more time to take in the information and also learn more.
With the length being too short, there is always the risk of the film etc in question of being over stuffed and rushed. Both were the case in 'Into the Deep'. Do agree as well regarding more variety (or at least a wider one) being more welcome.
However, so much is fantastic. It looks incredible for one thing, with the photography being particularly awe-inspiring. The Undersea world dazzles visually, those gorgeous colours, though one is aware without being beaten round the head that it poses daily challenges for the wildlife. This is also one of the more successful IMAX 3D nature documentaries when it comes to the 3D effects, which actually doesn't look cheap, too gimmicky or/and too reliant upon.
The music, with an accessible style, is relaxing in some parts while having some edge in other parts. The animals are a great mix of adorable, formidable and exotic.
When it comes to the information, it is very educational without preachiness or being gimmicky and is delivered incisively and sincerely with not a false note. Familiar content still being approached freshly, and in a way that will captivate and never disturb kids while not being cookie cutter. More to this than beautiful wildlife in a beautiful habitat.
Perfect 'Deep Sea 3D' is not, but there is a lot to admire. 7/10.
Not dorsal fins & blood...just the little guys down below
E Canuck1 October 2000
I'm definitely at odds with the other 30 reviewers, all male, who weighted this film's rating to a 4.9 to date. It's been several years since viewing, but I recall going back twice for the 3D sense it gave me of looking in on the lives of the "little" guys underwater. No, not terrifying great white sharks...the most "terrifying" scene is of a giant sun-fish sweeping down on other, tiny starfish, and their valiant attempts to flee. I laughed with the kids in the audience and put out my hand to "touch" the waving kelp that appeared to be just in front of my neighbour's head.
Of course, if years of Hollywood blockbusters has conditioned you to want big thunder and big blood, and you really can't stomach small wonders, don't bother with this...it's not for you. It's for kids at heart.
Of course, if years of Hollywood blockbusters has conditioned you to want big thunder and big blood, and you really can't stomach small wonders, don't bother with this...it's not for you. It's for kids at heart.
Undersea of wonder.
cmyklefty20 December 2001
Into the Deep is an enjoyment of sight and sound. Filmed in 3-D Imax format. It felt like you moving through the ocean and the underwater wildlife coming towards you while sitting in your seat. I saw a few films in this format but the first time in 3-D. Hypnotize your eyes in wonder and amaze how vivid the colors of the sea look lifelike in 3-D. Well worth the price of admission.
Not very Informative or Entertaining
Greatornot10 February 2009
I felt this documentary about the Living Organisms of the Ocean was sloppy and rushed. There was some good footage but nothing earth shattering. Kate Nelligan was just OK as narrator. She had no pizazz. She was monotone and basically just going through the motions. Pardon the pun. The movie was short , only 35 minutes. It was just a lackadaisical effort . Seems like any amateur could get the footage that the makers of this documentary were able to get. I also felt the music was unnecessary. I love new age music , don't get me wrong , but I would have much rather have heard more of the natural sounds coming from the ocean. I am glad they mentioned something about some of the ocean plants that strive . Some of the facts about these plants were satisfying to hear. Still I can not give this movie any kind of kudos. I was simply; Very disappointed in this effort and would certainly not recommend this to others.
The world of the California Diver!
sgdakers18 February 2011
I am a professional dive instructor (PADI IDC Staff Instructor #233440)) who, for years, taught at Santa Catalina Island, just off the California coast. One of my favorite remembrances as a dive instructor was to enter the Casino Point Dive Park in Avalon. Just a few feet off the entry point was a kelp forest. I enjoyed hovering weightlessly in the waves, swaying with the kelp, watching fish move in and out.
The human eye sees so much more than the camera can pick up. I was mesmerized by the light that filtered through the kelp forest. The Garibaldi, the California state fish, would wait for us and circle us as we entered the water. Many of my peers took small bags of frozen peas to feed them. Schools of them would circle us and watch us... just in case we brought munchies. In the afternoon around 2pm, fish would "park" for what looked like nap time in the kelp. Night dives was truly another world.
I watched sun stars move along he sandy bottom off of Monterey, CA. I played (cautiously) with the jelly fish that "invaded" one of my open water classes there. How in the world can they actually be alive? Beats me. How do brittle stars know to run in panic? How can they panic if their brains are so small? I've been diving with sharks, and they didn't bother me, but the Moray eel, who opens his mouth to breathe can look fearsome and caused me give them a respectful, wide berth.
No, this movie doesn't have shipwrecks or chase scenes. It's real. It approaches things gently,answering the curious questions of a wide-eyed child. I enjoy it because it's real. It brings back memories. This is what it's really like. It's quiet... and incredibly beautiful. It's peaceful. Breathe deeply and slowly... and feel the waves. Imagine yourself weightless.
It'll change you.
The human eye sees so much more than the camera can pick up. I was mesmerized by the light that filtered through the kelp forest. The Garibaldi, the California state fish, would wait for us and circle us as we entered the water. Many of my peers took small bags of frozen peas to feed them. Schools of them would circle us and watch us... just in case we brought munchies. In the afternoon around 2pm, fish would "park" for what looked like nap time in the kelp. Night dives was truly another world.
I watched sun stars move along he sandy bottom off of Monterey, CA. I played (cautiously) with the jelly fish that "invaded" one of my open water classes there. How in the world can they actually be alive? Beats me. How do brittle stars know to run in panic? How can they panic if their brains are so small? I've been diving with sharks, and they didn't bother me, but the Moray eel, who opens his mouth to breathe can look fearsome and caused me give them a respectful, wide berth.
No, this movie doesn't have shipwrecks or chase scenes. It's real. It approaches things gently,answering the curious questions of a wide-eyed child. I enjoy it because it's real. It brings back memories. This is what it's really like. It's quiet... and incredibly beautiful. It's peaceful. Breathe deeply and slowly... and feel the waves. Imagine yourself weightless.
It'll change you.
way cool...
razorburnd22 May 2001
I don't know what film some of the other reviewers have seen, but I've been to multiple IMAX theatres just to see "Into The Deep." The 3-D effects are excellent, as is the footage and the narration. You'd never think watching the short, happy lives of squid, waving kelp forests, or plankton floating by your eyes would be quite so mesmerising---but the filmmakers really pull it off. 9/10.
Awesome IMAX 3D documentary movie!
matteoromenghi8 June 2022
Seen it at Edwards 21 Cinemas, Irvine Spectrum, Irvine, California, U. S. A., August 11, 1997.
Outstanding IMAX theater with huge 1.43:1 screen, 1570 GT film projector and 6-channel surround sound system (1997).
My first IMAX experience.
Great!
Outstanding IMAX theater with huge 1.43:1 screen, 1570 GT film projector and 6-channel surround sound system (1997).
My first IMAX experience.
Great!
Excellent Documentary! One of the best!
sfgeoff116 December 2008
I know this review will not get submitted because it's not long enough. But it is all I had to say/comment on for this film, and I want to say that your rule of 10 lines minimum really sucks! I think my comment is valuable, but unless its 10 lines long it seems you don't.
my review:
When I saw Into the Deep, it was my first IMAX 3-D film. I remember I was not real thrilled to see a documentary for my first one, and on top of that, it was only 35 minutes long. "What a ripoff!" I thought. But as soon as the film started, I was enthralled. The Narrator along with the beauty of the ocean life and especially 3-D aspect was so good it made me cry! No kidding. This film moved me. It gave me a greater desire and passion for nature. One that I never had. I still think of this film often and wish I could see it again.
my review:
When I saw Into the Deep, it was my first IMAX 3-D film. I remember I was not real thrilled to see a documentary for my first one, and on top of that, it was only 35 minutes long. "What a ripoff!" I thought. But as soon as the film started, I was enthralled. The Narrator along with the beauty of the ocean life and especially 3-D aspect was so good it made me cry! No kidding. This film moved me. It gave me a greater desire and passion for nature. One that I never had. I still think of this film often and wish I could see it again.
Pretty good film
Coolguy-76 August 2000
This is the first imax film I have ever seen. I saw it with my aunt and my sister while vacationing in Chicago at a theater in Navy Pier. It told us about the animals that inhabit the kelp beds of the Pacific Ocean. The people who worked at the theater gave us each a mask to wear while watching it so it would look like we were really down there. It did somewhat feel like we were.
Question
jirwinsky25 September 2005
When my Father was alive, a year ago, I worked at a radio station where Allison, who works at Cinemark had sent my Mother & Father to an opening, in 2001, to this Film of "Into The Deep". I guess they said it was the most real and fascinating film they ever saw. Now that my Father has passed on, my Mother has a Birthday on the 9th of October, she will be 80 and she wants my sister and I to take her to see this movie again. Is it possible to send it back to Colorado Springs 3D Imax, and "Journey of Man" also? I have only seen one of your 3D's recently with her, and I was absolutely in shock at how beautiful it was, I actually reached out to touch the fish, I could not and still cannot believe how you did that! It was my first 3D and I'm 53. It just took my breath away at how real it was. Allison is the one that sent us Complimentary Tickets for free lunch and a 3D every month for 6 months. That got us hooked on them. At least the slower one's like the underwater and the Grand Canyon. Thank You, Theresa & Dean
Under the Sea (Imax Film)
patrick_dunne8 February 2006
"Into the Deep" is an Imax film documenting the life about fish and other sea creatures.
It's an Imax film, so it's shown on a really big screen. This helps the viewer feel like they are right there, when the camera gives us a view of the water level.
Then it focuses on the life of fish and other sea creatures. For example, did you know that Lobsters and other crustaceans have to break out of their shells and get new ones. Of course you knew that Hermit Crabs do it, but did you ever expect lobsters? Don't forget how weird and cool the Starcastic Fringeheads are.
I'm not sure how much the admission is to get into the Imax theater, but this may be worth it. It's a whole lot better then the other Imax film: "T-Rex: Back to the Creustaceous."
Feel free to send me a Private Message regarding this comment.
It's an Imax film, so it's shown on a really big screen. This helps the viewer feel like they are right there, when the camera gives us a view of the water level.
Then it focuses on the life of fish and other sea creatures. For example, did you know that Lobsters and other crustaceans have to break out of their shells and get new ones. Of course you knew that Hermit Crabs do it, but did you ever expect lobsters? Don't forget how weird and cool the Starcastic Fringeheads are.
I'm not sure how much the admission is to get into the Imax theater, but this may be worth it. It's a whole lot better then the other Imax film: "T-Rex: Back to the Creustaceous."
Feel free to send me a Private Message regarding this comment.
Bad.......Really Bad
TheDvDFan20 January 1999
At first it looks like an underwater IMAX 3-D film, but then it turns into something awful! Though it is in 3-D, the picture quality (as in 3-D quality too) is kinda bad. The whole movie starts out good (C+ average) and then just flops by stuff an average person won't know by time they die! If you like all IMAX 3-D films go and see it. If you don't then don't waste your $7 on it.
Grade Average: D+
Grade Average: D+
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