Disney Nature’s Earth and God
I have been a long time fan of Disney. (Who isn’t?) I have so many fond childhood memories that include Disney movies (my first Disney movie in the theatres was The Little Mermaid), disney characters (I loved swinging my baton around, pretending to be Cinderella’s fairy godmother), and Disney barbies (I pretty much had them all).
About a week ago, Angie and her girls, Lindsay and her daughter and me, went to see a screening for Disney Nature’s new movie earth. The movie is basically the movie Planet Earth in 90 minute form (instead of six DVDs). And when I say, is basically Planet Earth, I mean all (or almost all of) the footage was taken from the enormously successful BBC documentary. But even if you own the DVDs, you still should consider seeing this film in the theaters. Before I continue, check out the trailer so you have a point of reference for what I am about to share.
The movie’s foundation is about three animal families’ journeys over the course of one year. You watch the baby animals grow and see the earth in a way that most of us will never get to see. As I watched the movie, I couldn’t help but think about how incredibly marvelous and creative God is.
I remember looking over and seeing Abby and Ellie delighted by the baby polar bear cubs taking their first steps, as their mother looked on. I then thought about my role as a mother and how not too long from now, I will watch Elias take his first steps. It is crazy to me how motherhood is something that animals and humans get to experience. What a precious gift from God – and awesome teachable moment for kids.
The movie also lead me to ponder God. It is astounding to me that God created such beauty on this earth that most people will never see. Powerful waterfalls. Grandiose mountains. Delicate rainforests. Psalm 66:4 says “All the earth bows down to you; they sing praise to you, they sing praise to your name.” Verses like that always confuse me a bit. How can the earth praise God? Well, after seeing those waterfalls, rainforests and mountains and all the creatures in the movie, I have a better understanding of what the psalmist was saying.
This stunning movie provides parents with a great opportunity to talk about the majesty of God, His creativity and how GREAT is his love is for us. I encourage you to check out this movie with your family – and when you buy your tickets, Disney will plant a tree!
Peace be with you this Good Friday. Take time to reflect on the majesty of God today and the gifts he has bestowed upon us, from the beauty of the earth we live on to the gift of Jesus.
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I think this movie looks great! I love things like this! The Earth within its true beauty!
Have a lovely Easter!!!
xxx.
Great to hear such a good review. I have been looking forward to the release of this movie and think my girls will love it!
I’m glad to hear such a good review. I am taking my class (4th grade) to see it in two weeks, on the big screen. I’m already thinking of which little ones I can sneakily suggest the Psalms to! I can’t wait!
This was beautiful Jessica!!! LOVED IT! I hope you have a wonderful Good Friday and wonderful Easter with your precious family!!! :o)
Thanks for the heads up. I had no idea that Disney was releasing this movie. It will be fun to take the kiddos to. I also thank you for giving me the idea to use the movie as a teaching tool for my children. Always looking for them. Thanks a bunch, love your blog!! ~Sarah~
I am sooo excited about this movie! The entire elementary school that I teach at is going to see it during the week of Earth Day! Field trip to the movies! How special for the kids and teachers. I can’t think of a better visual teaching tool. Elias’ Easter pictures are awesome!!! They just got better and better with each shot. What a smiley boy. I don’t know how you ever narrow down which ones to frame. Have a wonderful Easter!
Hi Jessica
You have no idea who I am but I googled “how long is Disney’s planet Earth” and found your blog! Thank you for your awesome writing about this film. My daughter Jessica and I are going tonight. Thanks for the encouragement!
Sarah