117593
117593

Sea Urchins

1954-01-01
6.3
fr 11m
Documentary
Underwater photography, magnified close-ups, and film through microscope present the sea urchin, a complex creature. We see their mouth and five teeth close and open. After injecting one with gelatin, the shell is removed and we see the muscle structure, digestive tube, and reproductive organs. Magnified stems reveal suction cups; stems lengthen and contract allowing the sea urchin to move. We see microscopic calcareous stems; at their ends are jaws with various uses. Cilia everywhere are in constant motion, stirring up water and debris. African music on the soundtrack suggests a shuffle dance.

Director

Jean Painlevé

Director

Geneviève Hamon

Cinematography

Claude Beausoleil

Status

Released

Countries

  • France

Companies