'Shark Whisperer' Review: An Magical Underwater Tale
- Romey Norton
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
By Romey Norton - June 30, 2025
If you think you've seen every possible human-animal connection on screen, think again. In the documentary film Shark Whisperer, with grace, grit, and a GoPro, we watch world-renowned free diver and marine conservationist Ocean Ramsey on a mission to challenge and change how we see sharks. Not as man-eating monsters (thanks, Jaws), but as vital, intelligent creatures deserving of respect and protection.
What is 'Shark Whisperer' about?
Shot across stunning open waters and featuring breath-taking footage of close-up encounters with tiger sharks and great whites, the film is a visceral ride that both educates and captivates.
Ramsey doesn’t use cages, spears, or fear. Her tools are understanding and body language, what she calls “shark signals.” Watching her swim inches from massive predators without a shred of panic is both mesmerizing and unsettling. Ramsey says she feels a connection and feels alive when she’s underwater and near the sharks. With a natural edge for free diving, we watch her build her strength and train underwater. Impressively, she can hold her breath for six and a half minutes. James Cameron will be casting her in his next underwater project, for sure.
There are interviews with Ramsey, underwater photographers, researchers, diving instructors, lifeguards, and more, all giving their opinions and experiences when it comes to the sea and sharks. Ramsey is a very likable and kind person, and by her narration and exploration, she tries to redefine what it means to ‘tame’ something feared, helping audiences change their fear into empathy. The film encourages respect for marine life and the wonders of life under the sea.
Footage used from old news reports, home videos, and their social channels helps aid the story of where the fear of sharks has evolved from. But it’s the footage of her underwater with these magnificent beasts that makes the documentary worth watching. Some images and videos are so beautiful that they’re awe-inspiring. The orchestral music used throughout helps the film feel relaxed and comforting, but it can build tension when the sharks are close.
There are counterarguments that what Ramsey is doing is making people put themselves into dangerous situations to be like her. When really, she is quite a unique person.
Towards the end, all their efforts have paid off as a rule was made in Hawaii to help the conservation and protection of sharks. It’s a heart-warming and motivating end to the documentary film.
Overall, the film does well in making audiences question their views and thoughts on sharks, and reminds us that fear is often just a lack of understanding. We’re being shown and taught how gentle these creatures can be and how we can live in harmony and enjoy them when there’s understanding, respect, and compassion. I would say, don’t just go into the sea thinking you can be besties with a shark. It's time, trust, and understanding which has allowed Ramsey to do what she does, and it’s magical for her to share this story.
Is the documentary 'Shark Whisperer' worth watching?
Yes. If you’re searching for an uplifting documentary film with emotional weight and gorgeous visuals, Shark Whisperer is well worth watching. With a runtime of 90 minutes, Shark Whisperer delivers a gentle but powerful message about connection, trust, and looking beyond first impressions.
'Shark Whisperer' is out now on Netflix—Watch here
Dive deeper into the world of indie cinema, short films, and hidden streaming gems by checking out more reviews at Film Focus Online.
