Documentary
2004 / 58 minutes
Rating: 7/10

This is a gorgeous investigation of how Creation evidences its Creator. Life’s Story was filmed in more than ten countries and it takes us under the ocean waters too. We’re introduced to lions, parrotfish, dolphins, giraffes and so many more critters, exploring the genius apparent not only in their bodies, but in their instincts, and even in their relationship with other animals.

So, for example, we learn how the parrotfish feeds on the algae that grow on coral formations – this fish needs the coral to serve as its shelter and food source. But the coral also needs the parrotfish to clear away the algae, which otherwise might grow unchecked, and choke off the coral. This symbiosis – two creatures needing each other in order to survive – is a testament to God’s intertwined design. It’s also a problem for evolutionists to explain, because if each needs the other, then which evolved first, the coral or the parrotfish?

God’s genius is showcased with one illustration after another, even delving into the creative ways different animal babies are born. Did you know a giraffe baby is born with its mother still standing up, and the afterbirth functioning as a kind of elastic cord to slow the baby’s 6-foot descent to the ground? How cool is that? And there’s loads of knowledge bombs like that spread throughout.

Caution

At one point early on the narrator declares the “debate over the origins of life has raged for 150 years, but now, finally, the debate is over.” Though he states it quietly, and his British accent adds some gravitas to it, this is hyperbolic. Evolutionists still exist, so the debate continues, even if it really shouldn’t (Rom. 1:20). Other overstatements like this mean that as fun as this could be to watch with your family (while pointing out the hyperbole to the kids), it is not the film you’d show your college classmate who’s skeptical about the case against evolution. They’d be better off watching Evolution’s Achilles’ Heels and Dismantled instead.

Conclusion

A handful of overstatements are what demote this down to being a good, not great, documentary. In its favor it has impressive footage – we’re getting close enough to count the lion’s teeth, and diving down deep into an underwater world we’d otherwise never see. Viewers will also love all the insights into the intricacies of these critters which are sprinkled liberally throughout. The narrator’s calm voice is at times almost sleep-inducing, but the stunning visuals will wake you back up. And if you enjoy this one, be sure to check out the sequel: Life Story 2: the reason for the journey.

Another mark in its favor? You can watch it for free below.