For years, those who have studied and developed a close relationship with octopuses have known that their intelligence is quite staggering, with each individual displaying unique personality traits.

Before we argue, yes, the plural of octopus is octopuses, although I don’t have a problem with you using ‘octopi’ if that makes you feel warm inside.

I’m not sure that a human has ever developed a tighter bond with an octopus than Craig Foster, and it’s his journey that is the focal point of a new Netflix documentary, My Octopus Teacher.

Produced by Foster, and directed by Pippa Ehrlich and award-winning filmmaker James Reed, the doccie is a visual masterpiece, due in part to the skills of acclaimed underwater cameraman Roger Horrocks, who worked on the BBC’s Blue Planet II.

Here’s more from the synopsis on the Sea Change Project:

Eight years ago, debilitated by adrenal fatigue, Craig began free diving in a freezing underwater forest at the tip of Africa. As the icy water re-energised him, he started to film his experiences and in time, a curious young octopus captured his attention. By visiting her den and tracking her movements everyday for months, he won the animal’s trust and they developed an unlikely relationship.

As the little octopus shared the secrets of her world, Craig became witness to the beauty and drama of a wild creature’s life and in the process, underwent an incredible mental and physical transformation.

After nearly four years of editing, and 10 years of diving in the forest, Craig and his teacher are ready to share their story:

It’s not often that a trailer alone is enough to make one emotional, but here we are.

My Octopus Teacher will hit Netflix on September 7, so mark that date down.

[source:seachangeproject]