The film presents itself as a serious examination of Darwin and his theory while in fact it appears to be far from this and appears to have a creationist agenda lurking in the background. I say "lurking in the background" because all too often the film lacks the courage of the evident convictions of its producer and director. It points out a number of errors, or alleged errors, that Darwin made on the Beagle voyage, which is fair enough. No doubt Darwin did make errors. But it then uses them to cast doubt on such issues as the age of the earth, suggesting that it is perhaps only a few thousand years old, rather than millions, as all serious scientists accept. Sir Charles Lyell's argument that geology shows that the earth is millions of years old, has not been seriously doubted since, although it is true that he did not give sufficient prominence to examples of sudden catastrophic changes. But the film tries to argue that this casts doubt on the whole theory, which it does not. There is no shred of evidence that all continents and the fossils in them are to be explained by a sudden world-wide and simultaneous flood which submerged the entire globe. The film does not argue, in any case, that the Grand Canyon was created in a sudden cataclysm. The film however never poses the argument directly, presumably because it is unsustainable. The film also states as criticism some points which are false, e.g. that the sea shells which Darwin found high up on the Andes were not fossilized. They were fossilized, as Darwin himself observed and the samples were returned to England. The film makes some valid points about Galapagos finches, which later research seem to show are not always separate species, in the sense that their beaks change from one form to another, but back again in a number of generations. Speciation is a debate within natural selection, but if one was to take on the whole debate and cast doubt on whether species evolve at all, one would have deal with all the intermediate fossils that have been found since Darwin, e.g. archeopteryx and the many Chinese reptile/bird fossils (some of which, yes, were fakes, but most are not), and the many intermediate species between ape and man, let alone DNA evidence. But the film does not attempt this, being apparently content to cast a little doubt here and there, without drawing any firm conclusion.
35 Reviews
A Dishonest Propaganda Piece
mastashredda-kj7 October 2010
Warning: Spoilers
This 'documentary' is an absolute disgrace, the majority of its time was spent trying to undermine the character of Charles Darwin, his work was never presented in its own light, but was constantly tainted with Creationist misdirections. A large portion of time was spent trying to discredit uniformitarianism, a concept that Charles Darwin had learned from reading the works of Charles Lyell. The film makers frequently made allegations that Darwin was unduly influenced by Lyell and by his own Grandfather, and often had Creationists on their payroll come and say things like "he (Darwin) had preconceived ideas" or would mention "Darwin's devotion to Charles Lyell".
The idea of catastrophism was emphasized every few minutes, with frequent references to earthquakes, floods and rapid continental shifts. There is a strong emphasis on the assertion that there is some kind of debate within science about the age of the earth and about whether evolution occurred. This however is not the case, Scientists are unanimous in accepting evolution as the explanation for the biodiversity on earth, and there isn't a credible scientist on the planet that would take young-earth creationism seriously. The people that made this film exist only on the very fringes, they will constantly make accusations that there is a conspiracy within science to silence them, but this isn't true. Young Earth Creationism is not scientifically supported at all, and this film is a prime example of that, they have to resort to character assassinations to try and convert people.
The idea of catastrophism was emphasized every few minutes, with frequent references to earthquakes, floods and rapid continental shifts. There is a strong emphasis on the assertion that there is some kind of debate within science about the age of the earth and about whether evolution occurred. This however is not the case, Scientists are unanimous in accepting evolution as the explanation for the biodiversity on earth, and there isn't a credible scientist on the planet that would take young-earth creationism seriously. The people that made this film exist only on the very fringes, they will constantly make accusations that there is a conspiracy within science to silence them, but this isn't true. Young Earth Creationism is not scientifically supported at all, and this film is a prime example of that, they have to resort to character assassinations to try and convert people.
another creationist ramble
periphilla24 October 2009
I have just finished reading "The Origin" and since I am about to deliver a presentation on Darwin's take on the origin of language I have been looking for video material on the theory of evolution and Darwin's legacy. After watching Richard Dawkins' brilliant documentary under the title of "The genius of Charles Darwin" I have also stumbled upon this other film which was supposedly celebrating the 150th anniversary of the most important publication the world has ever seen. Eager as I was to learn yet another thing about Darwin and the theory I approached the film with burning enthusiasm only to be severely disappointed. Throughout watching I felt that something was completely out of place partially because the film proved to have no concept at all. But more importantly, the things all these people were talking about had almost nothing to do with the ideas Darwin presented back in 1859 or anything concerning his life that I have read so far. The few things that were related to the facts regarding the theory and Darwin's life were completely distorted. It took me the entire film to understand it was creationist rubbish simply because I was expecting to see something remotely truthful and supported with scientific facts. Finally, the title of the film is misleading, as are the untruthful accreditations and obviously manipulated and misused statements of the majority of the people in the film. I guess without the misleading title no one would feel like watching, so no wonder I have just only now stumbled upon it instead of being made familiar with the film couple of months ago when real scientists were celebrating Darwin.
Fake, pseudo-science mumbo-jumbo !
santasa9926 September 2012
The Voyage That Shook The World is a dramatized documentary film commissioned by Creation Ministries International, a Christian Young Earth creationist organization, and produced by Fathom Media, a makeshift "front company" to approach experts like historians featured in the film. One of them, Peter J. Bowler historian of biology, stated that the creationist backing of the film had been concealed when he agreed to take part, he also stated that the editing of his words could give a false impression of his views as well as present a historically distorted portrait of Darwin. All three historians featured in the movie subsequently issued a statement that they had been misrepresented by the film company's selective reconstruction of Darwin's voyage.
Excellent thought-provoking production
CDephedrine27 December 2009
This documentary is an excellent portrayal of the life of Charles Darwin. It illustrates how his writing of the book, "On The Origin Of Species" in 1859 was the product of his interpretation of various scholarly works of the time but also his own inquisitive nature as well as some personal tragedies in his family. It also shows the shortcomings of some of his assumptions wherein his personal world view affected his opinions and writings, and how the light of modern science shows up some inconsistencies in his theorizing.
Cinematography includes on-site footage of the Galapagos Islands and other parts of South America, with species of tortoise, iguanas (including naturally occurring hybrids) and various bird species.
Re-enactments of the life and times of Darwin depict him as a boy, a young man and various other times of life right up to his more well-known depiction as an aged gentleman.
Interviews of modern scientists and historians give a balanced view of Darwin's scientific ability. As these experts come from a range of belief systems, the viewer is left to make up their own mind on the theories that Darwin postulated, and the film helps to foster a desire to explore the origins of life for oneself and to make up one's own mind about the deep mysteries of the origins of life that Darwin sought to address.
Cinematography includes on-site footage of the Galapagos Islands and other parts of South America, with species of tortoise, iguanas (including naturally occurring hybrids) and various bird species.
Re-enactments of the life and times of Darwin depict him as a boy, a young man and various other times of life right up to his more well-known depiction as an aged gentleman.
Interviews of modern scientists and historians give a balanced view of Darwin's scientific ability. As these experts come from a range of belief systems, the viewer is left to make up their own mind on the theories that Darwin postulated, and the film helps to foster a desire to explore the origins of life for oneself and to make up one's own mind about the deep mysteries of the origins of life that Darwin sought to address.
intelligently made
ipav26 August 2010
I didn't get all of the film when I first saw it (maybe I failed the IQ test :) so I watched it again. Each time I watched it my admiration for this film grew. I know the people who made this film and they would have meticulously researched it. They have shown a perspective of Darwin that I don't think has ever been made before. So it's about time we saw something which gives another angle to Darwin which is also true and gives us food for thought. The concept of the film is brilliant - but I don't want to give too much away. It has been made by scientists so expect technical terms. It is so refreshing to have a film which challenges our preconceptions and beliefs instead of toeing the evolutionary party line.
Realistic presentation of Darwin and Darwinism, warts and all
squinn-827-37309625 August 2010
I approached this documentary not really knowing anything about it, and found it to be well presented, balanced and thought provoking. The scientists interviewed revealed their own knowledge of Darwin, and these snippets were often at odds with the generally presented view of Darwin as the elder statesman of science. I found that interesting.
Having been raised in a secular environment and educated to take evolution and Darwin for granted, I was challenged to note the many ways his thought processes, and hence his work, had been affected, indeed skewed, by his life experiences. Also, having studied and taught science as an academic, it reminded me how unrealistic is the public image of the scientist as an impartial seeker after truth, without personal bias.
After the screening, I became involved in discussions with other viewers and the only ones who seemed to take a negative view of the movie were those who clearly had presuppositions that they were not prepared to revisit in the light of new information.
In short, I think everyone should watch this; but be prepared to revise your position.
Having been raised in a secular environment and educated to take evolution and Darwin for granted, I was challenged to note the many ways his thought processes, and hence his work, had been affected, indeed skewed, by his life experiences. Also, having studied and taught science as an academic, it reminded me how unrealistic is the public image of the scientist as an impartial seeker after truth, without personal bias.
After the screening, I became involved in discussions with other viewers and the only ones who seemed to take a negative view of the movie were those who clearly had presuppositions that they were not prepared to revisit in the light of new information.
In short, I think everyone should watch this; but be prepared to revise your position.
Informative if you are willing to think critically
biologydash13 August 2015
The perspective of this film comes from those with a point of view opposite of Darwin. While this may seem to paint him in a completely unfavorable light, it does not discredit the work he put in to form his theories.
The interviews from experts tend to paint Darwin in a more positive light acknowledging how his work has influenced science though they also acknowledge some flaws in his reasoning (as might be the case with any scientist). Ultimately, every scientist is influenced by some kind of preconceived notions. Lyell's influence on Darwin was strongly referenced.
The film as a documentary/history was adequate at best. I felt that hearing from experts was informative and intrigues me to hear more of what they may say within their own context to get a fuller picture (I do believe in being well read and researched). The acting and representation of Darwin's life was rather weak.
I do lean towards creationism and would give this a 7/10, though I understand how someone who might lean towards evolution would strongly give a lower rating.
The interviews from experts tend to paint Darwin in a more positive light acknowledging how his work has influenced science though they also acknowledge some flaws in his reasoning (as might be the case with any scientist). Ultimately, every scientist is influenced by some kind of preconceived notions. Lyell's influence on Darwin was strongly referenced.
The film as a documentary/history was adequate at best. I felt that hearing from experts was informative and intrigues me to hear more of what they may say within their own context to get a fuller picture (I do believe in being well read and researched). The acting and representation of Darwin's life was rather weak.
I do lean towards creationism and would give this a 7/10, though I understand how someone who might lean towards evolution would strongly give a lower rating.
Excellent thought provoking film.
Aumuller625 August 2010
I watched the film with much anticipation, and I was not disappointed it, the visual images of the film were of excellent. It was a fair and even documentary on the travels of Darwin on the HMAS Beagle. The details provided in the documentary show that Darwins Theory of evolution has many holes, some of which are still trying to be patched by Athiesitic scientist today. What the public in general is not told by the world today is that evolution whilst being the prevailing world view is a theory not fact. The proponents of this theory should be glad for stiff opposition from creationists, for without discussion and debate on how things work there could be no advancement. When people watch this film they should do so with and open mind and see the problems with Darwins theory, he was an 19th century scholar with the knowledge of the 19th century some of the things he proposed have been proved to be wrong. I was once like most in the world who accepted evolution because it was the only information I was given, till I found other sources of information on which I made and informed decision. It is movies like this that can make us all think. We need more of this otherwise we end up with a society controlled by one idea and no freedoms. The film does not say you must agree it just lets you think, with both sides of the argument. Excellent
Interesting reviews
bobliv31 September 2010
You obviously have people reviewing the show with preconceived ideas which they have no intention of changing. With the above noted reviews it goes both ways but I must say I would go so far as to say periphilla possibly didn't even watch the program as he had already made up his mind.
It was an interesting documentary, great scenery, worth while seeing. Like all documentaries they have their own spin but I did not find it outlandish by any stretch of the imagination.
If you watch this film with an open mind it does get it's point across that
It was an interesting documentary, great scenery, worth while seeing. Like all documentaries they have their own spin but I did not find it outlandish by any stretch of the imagination.
If you watch this film with an open mind it does get it's point across that
A high quality, balanced yet incisive critique of Darwin's work
sglasse7426 August 2010
A thought provoking and high quality documentary that provides a balanced yet incisive critique of Darwin's work. It does not attack the man but depicts him as a methodical, honest yet flawed naturalist who sometimes drew unwarranted conclusions from his data. The documentary reveals instances where Darwin failed to pursue certain lines of research which if he had done would have revealed a different explanation to the one he gave. It also shows how recent discoveries have provides a powerful challenge to some of Darwin's presuppositions. The documentary contains interviews with modern day intellectuals on both sides of the debate and provides a necessary counterbalance to the 'over-the-top' claims of some militant atheistic-evolutionists today. Highly recommended to all.
After 1492 came 1831
take2docs11 April 2020
Warning: Spoilers
Where would all the world's dogmatic atheists be without their beloved and deified Darwin? Had the now dusty fossil not published his monumental scribble, would some other literary missing link have come along to propose what is arguably a borderline superstitious, if not pseudo-scientific, theory to tickle the ears of mainstream academia?
If you hadn't already known, the documentary informs its viewers that Charlie was not the first to put forth the theory of Evolution. (From my own reading, there was an amateur naturalist by the name of Lord Monboddo in the 1700s, who in a book of his suggested, to the reaction of massive and rational derision, that man descended from the apes.)
Darwin's granddaddy, Erasmus, we learn from this doc, had an impact on Charles' thinking, as did a tome titled "Principles of Geology" by Charles Lyell. The theory of Evolution depends on the idea that Mr. Lyell came to accept and outlined, called uniformitarianism, which suggests an extremely aged planet combined with incremental changes that happen gradually over eons. When in fact, modern science has since discovered and shown that changes within nature can at times actually occur abruptly and rather swiftly.
The program notes that the young Darwin had problems with some of the teachings of the Church. That three of his children died prematurely also didn't help matters as far as Darwin's faith in God was concerned. We are told that as a child the young beardie-to-be was a bit of a fabulist, a yarn-weaver. One cannot help but wonder if at least on an unconscious level Darwin's drive to create a naturalist explanation for the origins of species and mankind was fueled more by a personal agenda than a desire for unbiased truth.
Portraits of Darwin, especially of him in old age, have him appearing as a broody and downcast fellow, as if psychologically crippled by his own godforsaken and spiritually empty worldview. (Interestingly, scientific predecessors of Darwin, like Newton and Galileo, had intelligently believed in an Intelligent Designer.)
I must admit, THE VOYAGE THAT SHOOK THE WORLD surprised me. I thought I was perhaps in store for a dryasdust, pro-Darwinian picture possibly featuring interview clips from prostrating "New Atheists" and other worshipful irreligionists. Appreciatively, it is nothing of the sort. It is rather a neutral telling of Darwin's 1831 voyage to South America and the earthshaking effects his jottings would later have on the world, or at least on gullible parrots.
With the dawn of the nominal if not benighted Enlightenment, non-theocrats and "progressive" secularists had needed a literary savior to contradict the Genesis account as well as an influential biped to place on a pedestal, and along came Darwin, for better or for worse.
Here was a man, in Charles Darwin, who considered tribal societies as inferior humans to modern Caucasians; who thought these "backward" natives needed to be civilized, and after witnessing some of these "savages" revert back to their old ways, failing an attempt at reforming them, it confirmed his belief that only the fittest, strongest, most progressive, survive.
The program points out a major flaw in Darwinism. What it is not so much interested in is the negative consequences Darwinism has had on the world. From imperialistic missions, to Nietzsche's "superman" philosophy, to the godless regimes of the 20th century, to transhumanism as the so-called natural next step in human evolution, this particular "-ism" has certainly come in handy for many out to exploit what amounts to a mere theory. And to think that, prior to this voyage, Darwin had entered Cambridge university with the intent on becoming a clergyman! Imagine if he had become a man of the cloth. (My guess is, undoubtedly, another babbling orthograde would have come along to fill the cosmic role of scientific idol.)
Incidentally, in the end, Darwin's wife remained a God-believing woman her entire life and Darwin himself would later be treated to a Christian burial. Funny to think that this self-identifying primate, upon his physical demise, might have just sprouted wings after all. Now, there would be a metamorphosis for you.
If you hadn't already known, the documentary informs its viewers that Charlie was not the first to put forth the theory of Evolution. (From my own reading, there was an amateur naturalist by the name of Lord Monboddo in the 1700s, who in a book of his suggested, to the reaction of massive and rational derision, that man descended from the apes.)
Darwin's granddaddy, Erasmus, we learn from this doc, had an impact on Charles' thinking, as did a tome titled "Principles of Geology" by Charles Lyell. The theory of Evolution depends on the idea that Mr. Lyell came to accept and outlined, called uniformitarianism, which suggests an extremely aged planet combined with incremental changes that happen gradually over eons. When in fact, modern science has since discovered and shown that changes within nature can at times actually occur abruptly and rather swiftly.
The program notes that the young Darwin had problems with some of the teachings of the Church. That three of his children died prematurely also didn't help matters as far as Darwin's faith in God was concerned. We are told that as a child the young beardie-to-be was a bit of a fabulist, a yarn-weaver. One cannot help but wonder if at least on an unconscious level Darwin's drive to create a naturalist explanation for the origins of species and mankind was fueled more by a personal agenda than a desire for unbiased truth.
Portraits of Darwin, especially of him in old age, have him appearing as a broody and downcast fellow, as if psychologically crippled by his own godforsaken and spiritually empty worldview. (Interestingly, scientific predecessors of Darwin, like Newton and Galileo, had intelligently believed in an Intelligent Designer.)
I must admit, THE VOYAGE THAT SHOOK THE WORLD surprised me. I thought I was perhaps in store for a dryasdust, pro-Darwinian picture possibly featuring interview clips from prostrating "New Atheists" and other worshipful irreligionists. Appreciatively, it is nothing of the sort. It is rather a neutral telling of Darwin's 1831 voyage to South America and the earthshaking effects his jottings would later have on the world, or at least on gullible parrots.
With the dawn of the nominal if not benighted Enlightenment, non-theocrats and "progressive" secularists had needed a literary savior to contradict the Genesis account as well as an influential biped to place on a pedestal, and along came Darwin, for better or for worse.
Here was a man, in Charles Darwin, who considered tribal societies as inferior humans to modern Caucasians; who thought these "backward" natives needed to be civilized, and after witnessing some of these "savages" revert back to their old ways, failing an attempt at reforming them, it confirmed his belief that only the fittest, strongest, most progressive, survive.
The program points out a major flaw in Darwinism. What it is not so much interested in is the negative consequences Darwinism has had on the world. From imperialistic missions, to Nietzsche's "superman" philosophy, to the godless regimes of the 20th century, to transhumanism as the so-called natural next step in human evolution, this particular "-ism" has certainly come in handy for many out to exploit what amounts to a mere theory. And to think that, prior to this voyage, Darwin had entered Cambridge university with the intent on becoming a clergyman! Imagine if he had become a man of the cloth. (My guess is, undoubtedly, another babbling orthograde would have come along to fill the cosmic role of scientific idol.)
Incidentally, in the end, Darwin's wife remained a God-believing woman her entire life and Darwin himself would later be treated to a Christian burial. Funny to think that this self-identifying primate, upon his physical demise, might have just sprouted wings after all. Now, there would be a metamorphosis for you.
Very good historical & philosophical documentary
snowart26 August 2010
In this time of uncritical acceptance of anything Darwinian, this movie clearly exposes the man's geological, biological and theological weaknesses, whilst as truly as possible chronicling his life and work. Whilst his actual scientific research and work was meticulous, his conclusions were not - few know how heavily he relied upon other's conclusions. For instance, the incredible importance of lawyer, Lyell's, work on 'Uniformitarianism' which meant Darwin incorrectly and vastly 'over-aged' certain S American river deposits on his Beagle voyage - he had little geological experience himself - as covered in this film. Or his final conclusions on the 'evolution' of the Galalpagos Finches, whose bills are now known to change almost instantly to accommodate seed size, and can all interbreed - thus demonstrating only 'breeding after their -Biblical - Kinds' - built-in variety, and not evolution = no slow, blind, random actions, no new genetics, no new info etc. Although Darwin knew well the strict limits to breeding from both his own life's work and many others, his final conclusion that 'simple' - no such thing, as they all possessed the same incredible complex DNA from the beginning! - cells had somehow turned into people is as tragic as his own life turned out to be. See this film, and Wake-Up! Unlike his mentor's geological ignorance of how rapidly rocks form - 'The Time is Short'...
A really good film for the family showing Darwin's life with great skill, but also recognises his ideas, although widely held, may not in fact, be true.
chrisleathers25 August 2010
Our family really enjoyed the film, and Darwins story of his life. They used a real sailing ship and have wonderful footage of the animals on the Gallopagos and elsewhere. It showed his joy at living his dream and the sadness of family loss contributing to the loss of the belief he had held as the son of a pastor. He turned towards trying to find out world history without God as he was so saddened by what had happened. The film producers have their roots based from the viewpoint of the Bible as real history, so whilst not agreeing with Darwins theory of evolution, they still dealt honourably with his ideas and portrayed them clearly. His life and thoughts moulded in the home were always from a 'uniformitaritan' perspective (which means the world has always been stable environment in the landscape with localized occasional flooding, and uplift of hills etc.((simplified explanation))No Noahs flood etc. Although his father was a pastor it was for a Uniformitarian church which did not hold to the tradional belief in the Bible and Noahs flood etc. The film left Darwins theory intact but asks questions as to whether in fact he came to the right conclusion as to the history of the species. In these days of adherence to the millions of years, evolution is true at all costs belief, it was refreshing to see such a well handled and honouring cinemascopic biography which dares to suggest that Darwins ideas may be faulty.
A brilliant, well produced and beautifully crafted movie.
johnallen-225 August 2010
The well-researched portrayal and clear presentation of facts help to provide a well balanced understanding of what was perhaps the most momentous voyage in recent history, causing many to question their cherished beliefs and many to have those beliefs reinforced.
The movie does not seek to "brainwash" but rather, by a sensitive portrayal of the deep emotions experienced by the lead characters, gives a clear picture of the impact of Darwin's suppositions.
The scenery and wildlife photography form an impressive backdrop to the way in which these events were played out.
I have no hesitation in recommending this movie for general exhibition and would love to see it presented on national television.
The movie does not seek to "brainwash" but rather, by a sensitive portrayal of the deep emotions experienced by the lead characters, gives a clear picture of the impact of Darwin's suppositions.
The scenery and wildlife photography form an impressive backdrop to the way in which these events were played out.
I have no hesitation in recommending this movie for general exhibition and would love to see it presented on national television.
Wonderfully produced and puts the facts straight
jonathon-828-54162226 August 2010
'The Voyage That Shook the World' was produced in 2009 for the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin. This documentary is a powerful response to mainstream thought; that Charles Darwin developed the theory of evolution after observing what he thought was evolution in action, such as on the islands of the Galapagos. Many viewers will be surprised to hear of the actual events surrounding Darwin's theory and what he really observed and are left to make up their own mind as to their origins.
Directed by Steve Murray, this documentary has been produced with the highest quality camera equipment and in High Definition, placing it in the same league as the works of David Attenborough. Filmed in nine countries, 'The Voyage' takes you to some of the most fascinating destinations on earth retracing Darwin's Voyage. The documentary avoids the strongly biased position that is held by its opposition by interviewing many scientists from both the sides of creation and evolution which gives the film a balanced opinion.
'The Voyage That Shook the World' is a powerful and professionally produced documentary that explores the life and works of Charles Darwin while at the same time uncovering the fatal flaws in the theory of evolution using valid scientific observations and reasoning. This documentary really is a 'must see' for all.
Directed by Steve Murray, this documentary has been produced with the highest quality camera equipment and in High Definition, placing it in the same league as the works of David Attenborough. Filmed in nine countries, 'The Voyage' takes you to some of the most fascinating destinations on earth retracing Darwin's Voyage. The documentary avoids the strongly biased position that is held by its opposition by interviewing many scientists from both the sides of creation and evolution which gives the film a balanced opinion.
'The Voyage That Shook the World' is a powerful and professionally produced documentary that explores the life and works of Charles Darwin while at the same time uncovering the fatal flaws in the theory of evolution using valid scientific observations and reasoning. This documentary really is a 'must see' for all.
Remarkable, informative documentary
warrendane26 August 2010
The Voyage That Shook the World - did indeed do so. This documentary provides information that is not commonly available from the those who celebrate Darwin's conclusions. Video production is first rate. Couple this and the unique insights into the life and scientific conclusions of Darwin and you have a viewing experience that is thought provoking and informative. Whether or not you agree with the conclusions of this documentary, it will provoke probing thinkers to carefully examine your views of Darwin's contribution to science. If you are looking for an affirmation of your own views, this will not satisfy you. If you are looking for challenging information in the continuing debate over Darwinian thinking this film will be more than satisfactory.
Darwin's biography with a critical application of current knowledge to his theory
Dubby_Rodda26 August 2010
This film gives an excellent glimpse of Darwin's inquisitive character, and portrays him on location discovering what he considered evidence for his theory of evolution. He is seem to be very excited about this, and develops his theory based on his observations.
His theory and its assumptions are then carefully and critically examined by scientists in light of current scientific evidence. The observations they make may surprise the viewer and lead him to question his own assumptions about the theory.
This is a film for the thinker, the person who is looking for truth without caring whether or not it is popular. It is presented in an interesting manner, but with challenges to thinking along the way. For some people, they may wish to watch it more than once in order to be really clear about its implications.
Certainly more than entertainment - more about the search for truth!
His theory and its assumptions are then carefully and critically examined by scientists in light of current scientific evidence. The observations they make may surprise the viewer and lead him to question his own assumptions about the theory.
This is a film for the thinker, the person who is looking for truth without caring whether or not it is popular. It is presented in an interesting manner, but with challenges to thinking along the way. For some people, they may wish to watch it more than once in order to be really clear about its implications.
Certainly more than entertainment - more about the search for truth!
What influenced Darwin?
mnstrmike26 August 2010
Warning: Spoilers
Darwin: the Voyage that Shook the World is intended to be a thoughtful exploration, a crossover product to seek to influence the "mainstream" to "think again" about Darwin. It is also a powerful tool that can "break down the barriers" of evolutionary prejudice, overcoming preconceived ideas about biblical creationists by its approach of being gentle and fair without compromising truth. (http://creation.com/cmis-year-of-darwin-documentary).
This movie yes was produced by Christians. But it doesn't try to ram Christianity down your throat. It sole purpose is to show what life taught Darwin and how it influenced him to make his claims. The last 150 years have been tremendous because of this man, whether you are for or against is not the debate.
If you just watch this film to be entertained, you are missing a lot. You have to flex your brain muscles to hear and digest the truth that is the man Darwin. I'm not saying he was a bad man. But he made a lot of "facts" out of unproved theories. His biggest that he would not even have know about is the complexity of the cell. And the fact that no progression of DNA has ever been recorded. We lose DNA in species all the time.
This movie yes was produced by Christians. But it doesn't try to ram Christianity down your throat. It sole purpose is to show what life taught Darwin and how it influenced him to make his claims. The last 150 years have been tremendous because of this man, whether you are for or against is not the debate.
If you just watch this film to be entertained, you are missing a lot. You have to flex your brain muscles to hear and digest the truth that is the man Darwin. I'm not saying he was a bad man. But he made a lot of "facts" out of unproved theories. His biggest that he would not even have know about is the complexity of the cell. And the fact that no progression of DNA has ever been recorded. We lose DNA in species all the time.
Thought provoking and insightfull
theot5826 August 2010
This film is excellent because it raises some very interesting and disturbing questions about the commonly accepted assertions of Charles Darwin.
I had blindly believed what I was taught in school about Darwinian evolution; however this film raises some profound scientific challenges to Darwinism.
I liked the reasoned and balanced approach. The information it presents is interesting in that it gives credible evidence to support the assertion that if Darwin was alive today, he would be a Macro Evolution skeptic.
Definitely worth a viewing.
I had blindly believed what I was taught in school about Darwinian evolution; however this film raises some profound scientific challenges to Darwinism.
I liked the reasoned and balanced approach. The information it presents is interesting in that it gives credible evidence to support the assertion that if Darwin was alive today, he would be a Macro Evolution skeptic.
Definitely worth a viewing.
Balanced and thought provoking
bob1-828-85495926 August 2010
Amongst the hype of unrelenting praise for Darwin, this was a refreshingly balanced documentary. Brilliant filming from around the globe and interesting insights from top scientists to expand on the context and the reasoning behind the theory.
All the mainstream films last year would unquestioningly promote evolution, yet here there are questions being asked, and the answers are not what the majority would have you believe most of the time. Perhaps this can be the start of some reasoned and balanced debate on the subject in the media.
Enjoyable to watch, but makes you think and want to find out more.
All the mainstream films last year would unquestioningly promote evolution, yet here there are questions being asked, and the answers are not what the majority would have you believe most of the time. Perhaps this can be the start of some reasoned and balanced debate on the subject in the media.
Enjoyable to watch, but makes you think and want to find out more.
A Breath of Fresh Air in a Hot Debate
nwwatts26 August 2010
As one who has studied Darwinism as well as opposing views for 40 years, I felt that this was a brave and yet balanced attempt to give some perspective to the issues at stake. Darwin was not without his faults and his theory has many weaknesses which are acknowleged by honest scientist who are rabid bigots against any dissenting view. The film portrays Darwin sensitively and yet does not shrink from showing that there is credibility in the arguments which point out the weaknesses in his theory. Besides all this the film is beautifully produces and very entertaining. A must see for those interested in history and in breaking through the "politically correct" barriers that normally prevent discussion of anything contrary to the accepted Darwinist mantra.
Excellent. Thought provoking.
june-court26 August 2010
This film gives an overview of Darwin's life and work, centering on re-enacting Darwin's voyage as a young man on the Beagle. I felt the choice and use of actors, interviews with highly qualified scientists and locations was excellent. This was particularly so at the locations visited by Darwin where his conclusions were found to be false or controversial by the highly placed and regarded scientists interviewed, some of whom were not Creationists.
This high quality film brings much-needed balance to the evolution/creation debate and should be widely shown in schools, universities and particularly on TV.
This high quality film brings much-needed balance to the evolution/creation debate and should be widely shown in schools, universities and particularly on TV.
First rate production, top class content, very engaging.
jameswhiteford526 August 2010
Warning: Spoilers
For those interested in the growing debate about evolution, and in an age where the great High Priests of evolution like Richard Dawkins strut a very shaky stage, this movie is a welcome contribution. It is an outstandingly produced and engaging documentary that oozes honesty in it's subject matter, unlike so many others on the topic of Darwinism and evolution, which make many unscientific and unsubstantiated claims. It's also very intellectually challenging, asking the question "If Darwin knew what we know today, would he be a Darwinist?" Darwin himself is given very fair treatment, and contributions from other 'experts' from both sides of the fence are helpful. A relief from the barrage of vitriol directed by Dawkins, Singer and co at anyone who disagrees with their views.
Rounded and interesting
louise-priday1 September 2010
Warning: Spoilers
I liked the inclusion of scientists from a number of disciplines, representing a variety of "takes" on Darwin's work. I was particularly fascinated to see how his work sits within, and was profoundly influenced by, a framework of earlier theories. Perhaps even more striking was the exploration of Darwin's own philosophical/religious wrestling. While proponents of Darwinian evolution today present their case as observational science, and dismiss other views as religiously blinkered, the film made a powerful case for Darwin's own springboard being his attempt to resolve a fundamentally theological dilemma. I felt the film represented a healthy and three-dimensional examination of the man and his work. It was also well-acted, and light and easy to watch, without being lightweight.
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