Quick Info
If you’re in the mood for a soothing, surprisingly emotional documentary, “My Octopus Teacher” is a real gem. It follows filmmaker Craig Foster as he forges a unique bond with a wild octopus in a South African kelp forest. The underwater cinematography is genuinely gorgeous—there’s this sense of intimacy and patience that really comes across, making you feel like you’re right there with him as he discovers the daily miracles of sea life.
What makes this stand out is how personal the whole thing feels. The film doesn’t try to dazzle with stats or hard science—instead, it leans into Craig’s own journey, his emotional struggles, and the almost meditative bond he builds with the octopus. At times it borders a little too much on the poetic, and there are moments where the narration gets a bit self-reflective for my taste, but it’s hard not to get drawn into the story.
It’s definitely not an action-packed documentary, so I think it’s best for folks who want something calm and thoughtful—almost therapeutic, in a way. If you’re someone who appreciates nature, or you just want a reminder that there are still small wonders out there, this one will hit the spot.
