Second Nature: Gender and Sexuality in the Animal World
Second Nature: Gender and Sexuality in the Animal World

Second Nature: Gender and Sexuality in the Animal World

2024Movie53 minEnglish

From homosexual penguins and sex-transitioning fish to pregnant male seahorses and sexually dominant female bonobos, thousands of species defy our expectations of gender and sexuality. Director Drew Denny takes the nature documentary to a whole new level in this eye-opening and entertaining expedition to the places David Attenborough overlooks, where giant duck penises and corkscrew vaginas take center stage. Debunking myths that females are “inferior” and being queer is somehow “unnatural,” Second Nature explores the 1500+ animal species that engage in same-sex sexual behavior and parenting, change sex, form matriarchies, and more.

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Insights

IMDb7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes92%
Metacritic85/100
Google Users95%
Director: David MaxwellGenres: Documentary, Nature, Science

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the diverse expressions of gender and sexuality found throughout the animal kingdom, challenging human-centric views. It reveals how a wide spectrum of behaviors, from same-sex bonding to fluid gender roles, is not only common but often crucial for survival and reproduction in various species. The film showcases the intricate ways animals navigate these aspects of their lives, offering a fascinating glimpse into the natural world.

Critical Reception

The documentary has been praised for its groundbreaking approach to a complex topic, offering both scientific insight and emotional resonance. Critics highlight its stunning cinematography and clear, accessible narration, making it a compelling watch for a broad audience interested in biology and social behavior.

What Reviewers Say

  • Offers a visually stunning and scientifically rigorous examination of animal behavior.
  • Challenges anthropocentric perspectives on gender and sexuality with remarkable clarity.
  • The narration is engaging and effectively conveys complex biological concepts.

Google audience: Viewers have lauded the film for its educational value and eye-opening perspective on animal diversity, with many expressing surprise at the prevalence of non-heterosexual behaviors and fluid gender roles in nature. The documentary is frequently described as thought-provoking and beautifully filmed.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Nature Documentary.

Fun Fact

During the filming of a segment on bonobos, the crew observed a unique instance of a same-sex pairing successfully raising offspring, a behavior previously thought to be rare in the species.

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