Last Days of the Arctic (2011) User Reviews

Fascinating life journey of a photographer

[marklear-1 · 9/10 · 8 May 2015]

This film is a summary of the life of a photographer, who has visited several communities in the Arctic (especially in Iceland and Greenland) over decades. Each time he has gone, he has taken lots (and lots) of photos, and documents the changes to these societies very well. He has a particular passion for black and white photography, and a preference for film over digital. That said, there are many, many stunning images of the striking scenery of these countries, as well as those of the characters, families and communities he visits for us. It is clear that he is well- known to these peoples, and they enjoy his company, even though his own lifestyle is quite different from theirs. The changes occurring in these communities and in their people is clear for all of us to see, and each of us has to develop our own reactions to what is told. While some images will be challenging for some people, there is nothing in this film that is gratuitous - we have no doubt about where the future is going. The film's title tells us that. We even see some spectacular volcanic scenery in one segment. It is 90 minutes well spent watching the big screen images of these countries, their agriculture, towns, wilderness and lifestyles with a person who has the passion and knowledge to make it work.

Not acceptable, yet beautiful.

[alexgil2000 · 1/10 · 27 December 2018]

Let me explain my review. I dont really tend to vote 1s and even more i don't tend to write reviews but for this one i will because i need to explain myself to give justice to my vote. The film is great, the narration, the absolutely amazing photographs, they make for a great film in my opinion. What ruins it for me is the fact of seeing and even worse anticipating for the kill of an animal and even more for the kill of a polar bear. A documentary showing how the "lifestyles" of the people in the area have changed because of the climate change, yet still not caring about kill of 1/50 polar bears left as they say in the film. Once again i want to praise and congratulate for superb images of the photographer though. I hope i am not offending anyone with this review.