Walking with Dinosaurs (1999)

Documentary. This is perhaps the best computer-graphics-illustrated (CGI) science documentary on dinosaurs around. The BBC has done a fine job presenting a large number of detailed and wide-ranging chapters covering not only more dinos than most paleo-savvy parents of dino-loving kids can name, but putting them in an informative paleological and geographical context. In other words, even I learned a lot! The script is excellent, as is Kenneth Branagh's narration. The CGI is quite good--sharp and colorful up close, slightly less-detailed at a distance; some movement is stilted, but some is inventively fluid. The sound effects are notably inventive and the landscapes are stunning. The violence is understated but if you prefer Disney-animated dinosaurs, avoid this real-life facsimile. Three stars.