AllMovie

Australia is home to a great number of natural wonders, but none may be as impressive as the one that you can't readily see. Along 1,200 miles of the Australian coast stretches one of the world's most precious and fascinating ecosystems, the Great Barrier Reef. This coral reef is teeming with sharks, exotic sea plants and fish species that display more color than a home improvement store showcase. The trouble is most people have neither the physical capacity or money to go diving into the crystal blue to see first hand the splendor of the reef; hence, The Great Barrier Reef. This film was originally produced for the IMAX screen (an extra large screen that is bowed, giving viewers the perception of being in the middle of the action -- like a 3D movie, but without the glasses) for the average person that may never get the chance to peek beneath the surface. But since IMAX movies are shown only where an IMAX screen is available (typically at a museum or amusement park), Slingshot Entertainment has converted this amazing documentary to DVD and VHS for wider appreciation. Directed by IMAX veteran George Casey and narrated by Philip Clark and Rosylind Ayres, this film is sure to thrill with its spectacular portrayals of life in the reef. The DVD version is also equipped with alternate language options and a link to the Internet for further exploration by those that find themselves enthralled and wanting more from down under.