The Life and Times of Paul the Psychic Octopus

Paul the Octopus was an "animal oracle" who grabbed the world stage by predicting a string of shocking World Cup results, and this great documentary dives the full extent of his unlikely pop-cultural impact. No love of soccer required, because as is the case with most good films, this one isn't only about what it hints at on the box.

Subject matter experts and statistical analyses are introduced to quantify the possibility that maybe this soft-bodied mollusk did have otherworldly insights. Soon images of marine life and penalty kicks give way to beautifully shot old world churches and celestial landscapes, conjuring meaning of life themes and considerations of a higher power.

The filmmakers were clearly aware it would have be pretentious to oversell Paul's contributions, so the film's grand notions are counterpointed with a buffet of seafood jokes. It works to terrific effect; crisp imagery and editing pull us in while the story architecture endears us to the slimy/cuddly Paul, reminding us again that the impossible is not only maybe possible, but it eventually tastes good fried. - (If this review was of use to you, do let me know by clicking "Helpful." Cheers!)