Learning To See: The World Of Insects Special Edition

Although this film took a different angle than I expected - a lot time spent on the man and his work - I became very immersed in the whole story and the message of conservation. I found "companionship" in his reverence for the mostly unseen and unappreciated "citizens" of our incredible planet. I too am fascinated with and in awe of ALL life and am grateful for one who is helping others find value in the small species. This film is not the typical nature doc and does not teach about the species he shows, but it added value to my sense of wonder and appreciation for the diversity and beauty of insects. You will be awed at much of what you see - albeit often too brief a view. Thank you Mr. Coleman, for a brave choice to listen to your heart, take a different path and make a difference

LOVE THIS MOVIE! One thing we have the capacity to do as humans is appreciate the beauty of life, that's our special gift, but we desperately need to reconnect to it. In this beautiful film, son Jake Oelman, appreciates and honors his father, Robert Oelman and his father's amazing photography. Robert with his friend, Christian, appreciate and honor the beautiful creatures of the earth by really seeing them and showing us just how amazing they really are. In Robert's earlier life, working as a psychologist, he focused on the prisons the human mind can create; this became a prison for him as well. Then, after a leap of faith, he moves to Columbia and begins focusing on the awesomeness of the created world... imagine a life not self absorbed, but eyes open, connected to what is actually here on earth, imagine doing what we can do, loving, appreciating, caring for our earth? What a timely film! What a wonderful film! I appreciate and honor this work, and feel enriched and inspired by it. Thank you to Robert, Christian, Christian's adorable family, Jake and everyone involved with creating this life affirming film. We (us earthlings) thank you!

I dont get the 1 star reviews. There is a bit of a backstory which males the film more interesting to me. Robert has discovered several species that have never been photographed and his work has helped the scientific community as well as brought about greater recognition to the destruction of our rain forests. So many species of insects are wiped out before they are even discovered. Oh, and the photography is superb. I love shooting macro photography as well and you can see how he goes about capturing his incredible photos.

I was prepared to pan this documentary since most of it was in praise of the filmmaker’s dad, a man I don’t know and about whom I had no interest. All I got out of the first half was: there are lots and lots of insects, and I photograph them. But the fates smiled on him and he was able to turn his self-indulgent hobby into a tool to foster ecological awareness. That should have been the focus from the beginning because I don’t think I am alone in having little interest in some wealthy guy who goes to the South American jungles to photograph insects.

I have seen countless nature documentaries. Many are formulaic and preachy. This one is less so and if preachy, very mildly so. The insect photography is stunning. Simple presentation and not too many scientist talking heads. One experiences the joy of seeing other beings we would not have the opportunity to see but for devoted people who are searching. The short running time makes it an easy fit as not much time is demanded to watch it. I will be recommending this documentary to many people.

I really enjoyed this film. It is an interesting biography about a man who finds his passion, and in the process brings to light some of the most extraordinary insects you will ever see.

I love seeing the faces and personality of the bugs. It’s artistic and amazing.

Beautiful and inspiring. Every creative person should take time to watch this amazing artist's work. Understanding how nature got that crazy stuff he finds. So enjoyed the documentary.