Watch Africa Speaks!

Africa Speaks! is a 1930 documentary film that explores the wildlife and scenery of East Africa. The film was directed by Harald Austin and Paul L. Hoefler, with narration provided by Lowell Thomas, a well-known American journalist and radio broadcaster. The film starts by depicting the lush landscapes of East Africa, showing the vast savannahs and the towering mountains painted with bright colors. The camera then switches to the indigenous people, showcasing their culture and traditions, such as their dance and music. As the film progresses, it delves into the lives of the many animals that call East Africa their home, from the massive elephants to the fierce lions.

The documentary offers a unique insight into the many species that populate the African continent. The filmmakers capture the raw beauty of the animals in their natural habitats, showing them up close and personal. The film captures the humorous, playful moments of the animals, as well as the brutal and vicious side of predator and prey relationships.

Throughout the documentary, the filmmakers use their knowledge and experience to give context and insight into how these animals survive in one of the world's most difficult environments. With the help of Lowell Thomas' narration, the film creates a vivid description of the animals' characteristics and behaviors. The narration does not just describe the animals themselves but also their surroundings, explaining how they adapt and thrive despite the harsh conditions.

Particular attention is given to the migration of the wildebeest, one of the most famous events in the animal kingdom. The documentary shows the wildebeest crossing rivers and leaping over cliffs while being chased by hungry crocodiles and lions. The filmmakers succeed in creating a sense of urgency and action, as well as highlighting the struggle for survival in the animal kingdom.

The documentary also touches on the troubled relationship between the African bush and humans. The filmmakers visit a village to discuss how the people interact with the wildlife, portraying a nuanced and informative account of the situation. This theme is depicted without imposing on the audience, letting them make their own opinions.

The style of the documentary is noteworthy. At the time, Africa Speaks! was revolutionary for its use of sound technology, recording the sounds of the animals and using them for the soundtrack. This made it one of the earliest "talkies," and it was incredibly successful, grossing millions of dollars in theaters worldwide. Today, it remains a fascinating historical artefact that provides insight into how early filmmakers attempted to capture the majesty and danger of wild animals.

Overall, Africa Speaks! is a breathtaking and inspiring documentary. The combination of rich colors and evocative music, combined with breathtaking visuals, makes the film a stunning work of art. The filmmakers' knowledge of the subject matter and their ability to capture Africa's natural wonders create a film like no other. The inclusion of the indigenous people's music and dance adds a dimension of cultural importance that enriches the documentary, making it an important and holistic view of East Africa from the early 20th century.

Africa Speaks! is a 1930 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 15 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.1.