The Islands and the Whales (2017): Ratings & Box Office
The Islands and the Whales is a 2017 documentary directed by Mike Day. It runs 1 hour 24 minutes and earned $15,946 worldwide. Critics gave it 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.
- Released
- Runtime
- 1h 24m (84 min)
- Director
- Mike Day
- Genre
- Documentary
- Original language
-
Danish
- Studio
- Ro*co Films International
- After the credits
- No No extra scene
What Is The Islands and the Whales About?
The premise of The Islands and the Whales without spoilers.
In the remote Faroe Islands, a traditional practice of whaling clashes with the concerns of dedicated activists and the challenges of a changing environment. The region's unique culture and economy are threatened by declining whale populations and the growing issue of mercury contamination, creating a tense conflict between generations and beliefs.
The Director of The Islands and the Whales
Directed by Mike Day.
- Director Mike Day
The Islands and the Whales Reviews & Ratings
Critics gave The Islands and the Whales 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. Our Echo Score gives it 83/100, strongest in art & craft (90) and weakest in rewatch factor (60).
The Islands and the Whales Echo Score Breakdown
The Islands and the Whales demonstrates a thoughtful observational approach that balances ethnographic detail with environmental commentary. Its strength lies in the unobtrusive narrative voice and sweeping visuals, which capture both the fog-laden seascapes and the nuanced traditions of the Faroese community. At times, the pacing and contextual depth feel restrained, leaving some background questions unanswered. Nonetheless, the film successfully conveys the tension between heritage and ecological change in a coherent, engaging presentation.
Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.
- Art & Craft 90
In terms of cinematography and production design, the film presents sweeping landscape shots and an ethereal narrative tone that underscore the cultural traditions. The direction uses measured framing and editing to highlight the legacy of whale hunting. While some sequences feel stately, the visual cohesion consistently reinforces the film’s folkloric atmosphere. Overall, the art and craft support the thematic focus with clarity.
- Character & Emotion 80
When it comes to character depth and emotional resonance, the film offers observant portraits of local individuals and their interplay with tradition. The restrained narrative voice maintains neutrality while giving insight into community dynamics. Although personal backstories remain sparse, the interactions convey the tension between heritage and change. In sum, the character work yields thoughtful engagement.
- Story & Flow 80
In terms of plot coherence and engagement, the observational structure unfolds at a steady, reflective pace that suits the subject matter. The documentary neither imposes an agenda nor obscures the stakes of environmental shifts, but the lack of contextual background occasionally limits narrative clarity. Altogether, the story flow provides a thoughtful introduction to complex cultural and ecological issues.
- Sensory Experience 90
Regarding the sensory experience, the film’s sound design and musical accompaniment harmonize with the imagery to reinforce a contemplative mood. The serene soundtrack underlines the misty seascapes and intermittent folklore narration, while ambient sound lends authenticity to community scenes. The visual style maintains an understated color palette that aligns with the thematic undercurrents. Overall, the sensory elements produce an immersive viewing atmosphere.
- Rewatch Factor 60
Concerning rewatch value, the film’s thoughtful exploration of tradition and environmental concerns may yield further insights on subsequent viewings. The observational approach invites reflection on nuanced cultural dynamics, but the documentary’s measured pacing and limited narrative variation may diminish immediate replay appeal. Overall, the rewatch factor remains moderate, favoring reflective audiences.
-
Rotten Tomatoes 100% Tomatometer
Popcornmeter 57%
See on Rotten Tomatoes -
TMDB 53% User score
See on TMDB
The Islands and the Whales Box Office
The Islands and the Whales grossed $15,946 worldwide.
Worldwide gross
$15.9K
- International
- $15.9K
Seen The Islands and the Whales?
The Islands and the Whales FAQ: Box Office & Runtime
Runtime, release date, director, box office, ratings, post-credit scenes and language of The Islands and the Whales, each answered in a sentence.
How long is The Islands and the Whales?
The Islands and the Whales runs 1 hour 24 minutes (84 minutes).
When was The Islands and the Whales released?
The Islands and the Whales was released on October 6, 2017.
Who directed The Islands and the Whales?
The Islands and the Whales was directed by Mike Day.
How much did The Islands and the Whales make at the box office?
The Islands and the Whales grossed $15,946 worldwide.
How is The Islands and the Whales rated?
The Islands and the Whales has 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and 53% on TMDB.
Does The Islands and the Whales have a post-credit scene?
No. The Islands and the Whales has no extra scene during or after the credits.
What language is The Islands and the Whales in?
The original language of The Islands and the Whales is Danish.
Coming soon to your phone
The Plot Explained Movie Summary App
From blockbusters to hidden gems: plot summaries, endings explained and timelines on your phone. Save your favorites and never miss a twist again.
Be the first to know when it launches. Your email stays private, always. Learn more about the app
