Genesis

2004 Documentary

The cycle of life of a handful of different animals is captured on film in a whole new way in this documentary. Using special motion-control photography equipment, Genesis allows filmgoers to view animal behaviors which are too small, too slow, or too difficult to normally be seen with the naked eye, including a chick hatching its way out from inside an egg, jellyfish drying into nothing under the heat of the sun, or a snake slowly swallowing prey bigger than itself. This footage is accompanied by narration from Sotigui Kouyaté, who uses simple props and easily understandable analogies to explain the science behind what its shown on screen. Genesis was directed by Claude Nuridsany and Marie Perennou, who previously created another acclaimed scientific documentary, Microcosmos.

Director: Claude Nuridsany

Reviews

  • As extraordinary as all of this imagery is, it is the film's sound design that takes it to another level. A quirky, electric mix of ambient sound, effects and music by composer Bruno Coulais and sound designer Laurent Quaglio gives the film its heart and its sense of humor.

    Kevin Crust - Los Angeles Times

    12 May 2013

  • Eye-poppingly intimate footage of various critters evolving from the fetal stage or eating, strolling, fighting and courting that can only be obtained via infinite patience with special equipment in exotic locations.

    Lisa Nesselson - Variety

    12 May 2013

  • An unforgettable experience.

    Marc Mohan - Portland Oregonian

    12 May 2013

  • The real joy here is the gorgeous nature cinematography.

    Walter Addiego - The San Francisco Chronicle

    12 May 2013

  • Capable of enthralling.

    Michael Wilmington - The Chicago Tribune

    12 May 2013

Awards

  • Claude Nuridsany

    Montréal World Film Festival (2004)

     
  • Best Composer (Compositeur de musique originale)

    Étoiles d'Or (2005)