By Lori Bosworth
Torontonicity was invited to a media day at the Ontario Science Centre to watch the new documentary, Island of Lemurs: Madagascar, currently playing at the OMNIMAX Theatre. The stunning documentary, which focuses on lemurs and their habitat, is narrated by the venerable Morgan Freeman.
Lemurs exist exclusively on the Island of Madagascar, located off the southeast coast of Africa. There are over 100 species of lemurs currently on the island. Their existence has been secured by the absence of other primates due to Madagascar’s isolation. Lemurs exist in the island’s rainforests, feeding on fruits, nuts and bamboo. The species is under threat due to deforestation and hunting.
Directed by David Douglas, Island of Lemurs: Madagascar takes you deep into the island’s rainforests where you will see lemurs up close as they swing from branch to branch looking for food, leap in a dance-like fashion, vocalize with other lemurs in group harmony and transport their young on their backs while in search of food. The film also shows lemurs in other habitats such as the canyons of Madagascar, to which lemurs have had to adapt as a result of deforestation.
Island of Lemurs: Madagascar also features stunning aerial photography of this remote island, including its central highlands with dry, spiny forests, deserts, the eastern rain forests and the shores of the Indian Ocean.
Dr. Patricia C. Wright, the main scientist featured prominently in the film, has advocated for the survival of lemurs and was responsible for the creation of Ranomafana National Park. Wright is shown interacting with lemurs and says that her happiest moments come when she is alone with lemurs in their habitat.
These cute little primates have an unusual appearance with an almost cat-like face and torso of a monkey. Children should enjoy watching this IMAX film about an amazing species that has made Madagascar home.
Island of Lemurs: Madagascar is playing at the OMNIMAX Theatre, Ontario Science Centre, 770 Don Mills Road, 416-696-1000
