My Octopus Teacher Film
10 Discussion Questions
I loved the film, My Octopus Teacher. My daughter who has never liked cephalopods so much I could barely mention the title to her didn't watch it. She doesn't know what she is missing, in my opinion. Although there is a lengthy discussion guide online, I wrote ten discussion questions to encourage people to talk about the movie. The site's critical consensus reads: "A heartwarming look at the way a meaningful bond can transcend just about any barrier, this documentary will leave you asking your friends to come and see My Octopus Teacher with you." Living in a pandemic, that left me to watch it alone as no one in my so-called bubble wanted to watch (or discuss) the movie. So, that leaves me to write a blog post. Having watched it months ago, I still feel the impact of what I learned.
2. Did you connect with the protagonist,
the octopus? Did the protagonist have a name? Did she have a memory?
3. What portion of the life of the
octopus did Foster record? What is the usual life expectancy of a cephalopod? How
did you feel when he did not intervene or help at critical moments, like when
the shark attacked or she gave birth?
4. Do you think this movie was part of why
the UK declared some octopuses, crabs, and lobsters as sentient beings in 2001?
5. What is the range of temperatures in a
kelp forest? Why? Describe the self-discipline needed to form a relationship
with the octopus and record the information.
6. How is climate change affecting kelp
seaweed forests? How do kelp forests help climate stability?
7. Why do you think Foster said, “What
she taught me is to feel that you are part of this place. Not a visitor. And
that’s a huge difference.”
8. How did the story show love,
friendship, connection, and hope? Do you think it was a love story?
9. How does cold water stimulate brain
activity? How long did Foster and the filmmakers have to hold their breath?
1 What
is living science, according to the Sea Change Project?
Have you
had a “teacher” in nature? Tell about your experience.
If you have not seen the film, I hope to encourage you to do so. Here is a trailer that might help.
