Actors: Meryl Streep
Directors: Louie Schwartzberg
Rated: G (General Audience)
Studio: Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment
Release Date: April 16, 2013
Run Time: 80 minutes
Film: 4 out of 5 stars
Extras: 1 out of 5 stars
I have been a huge fan of Disneynature since their very first film “Earth”. Since then the studio has been releasing amazing new films each year like “Oceans”, “African Cats” and “Chimpanzee”. 2013 is the first year since Disneynature has not had a film in theaters since they started with “Earth”. But luckily we get “Wings of Life” which is the latest documentary arriving on Blu-ray just in time to celebrate Earth Day. This looks into the inside world of butterflies, hummingbirds, bees and bats and their relationship with flowers. I think this film would have had potential for a theatrical release but I understand why it was held back. The film is visual amazing and very dramatic but it really does have the catch to draw in the kids like “Chimpanzee” or “African Cats” did. Either way the film is still quite beautiful, visually stunning and to top it off perfectly narrated by Meryl Streep.
Official Premise: Disneynature presents a close-up look at the unsung heroes of our planet. Wings Of Life reveals the intricate worlds of bees, butterflies, birds, and bats. Our life on Earth relies on these incredible creatures, as more than one-third of our world’s food supply is dependent on them. Yet we are increasingly threatening their lives, and if they should suddenly disappear, we may too. Directed by Louie Schwartzberg, Wings Of Life takes us on an adventure to reveal this spectacular world that is right in front of us, yet rarely seen in such incredible detail.
Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment delivered a wonderful release here with a Blu-ray + DVD combo pack. The 1080p transfer looks simply perfect. You can see every single piece of pollen on the flowers, every detail of the insects and birds. I was left like with all Disneynature films with my mouth wide open at the amazing details. The high-speed cinematography is just stunning. You are able to be given a super close look into this world, while still looking stay in very sharp high definition image. Breathtaking is the only way to describe it. The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 also is a perfect compliment to the film. The charming and inspiring score drives the film, as well as its drama and action moments. Meryl Streep’s voice is also well-balanced and strong. My only disappointment here is that there are no extras included besides a sneak peek at Disneynature’s 2014 next theatrical film “Bears”. Although the film does look quite amazing! Next year cannot come any sooner!