The Voyage That Shook the World (2009)

Such a frustrating disappointment

One of my all time favorites.

Good , But It Is Overrated By Some

Bad Acting and worse Bad Screenplay

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.

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!

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.

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.