Watch Icons of Evolution

Icons of Evolution is a thought-provoking documentary film that was released in 2002. The movie examines some of the most controversial and widely-accepted theories of evolution, specifically the concept of Darwin's Tree of Life, and questions the authenticity and effectiveness of the evidence behind them. The film sets out to challenge the beliefs of many, and open up new debates regarding the core tenets of the evolutionary theory.

Throughout the movie, the audience is taken on a journey of exploration on how scientists present, teach and defend Darwin's theory of evolution, highlighting different presentations, textbooks and the traditional classroom materials designed to provide “facts” that support the theory. The film then proceeds to examine the accuracy of these materials as well as the quality of evidence presented in support of the theory.

Using interviews with leading researchers, evolutionary scientists and educators in the field, the film highlights many of the weaknesses and inconsistencies in the theory. It also showcases the thoughtful and measured insights and questions being asked by these same researchers about the theory's assumptions.

One particular focus of the film is the idea of microevolution versus macroevolution. Critics of evolution have long maintained that the theory cannot account for major jumps in evolution, such as the emergence of new species. Some researchers, including those interviewed in the film, have argued that the theory of macroevolution is not well-supported by the evidence and still requires sufficient scientific ground to be proved.

The documentary questions the validity of some of the most famous symbols or 'icons' of evolution such as the peppered moth, Haeckel's embryos and the Darwin finches. It examines how these icons have been used to support the theory of evolution throughout history and how they have become conventionally accepted evidence of the theory without standing up to rigorous scientific scrutiny. The film raises questions about the scientific methodology and data interpretation used in the experiments used to support the origin of species.

While the documentary challenges the theory of evolution, it doesn't necessarily reject it outright. Instead, it offers ideas on how to improve the way evolutionary theory is presented and taught, suggesting that educators need to be more open to a diverse range of ideas, theories and methodologies that would challenge the status quo.

Overall, Icons of Evolution is a well-researched, well-structured and thought-provoking documentary film that challenges conventional assumptions and offers food for thought that will interest both scientists and non-scientists alike. The documentary provides an essential point of reflection on the history and evolution of the theory of evolution and its current application in modern-day society. Recommended for anyone who is interested in the ongoing scientific debate about evolutionary theory, and specifically those who want insights from leading researchers in the field.

Icons of Evolution is a 2006 documentary with a runtime of 52 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7.