Is Say Goodbye Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Say Goodbye is likely a skip if you enjoy Documentary movies.
It features a runtime of 52 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Say Goodbye Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1971, Say Goodbye enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on Say Goodbye is a 1971 American documentary film about the relationship between humans and nature, directed by David H. Under the direction of David H. Vowell, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Rod McKuen. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Say Goodbye offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Say Goodbye resonates with current cultural themes in the Documentary space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of early 2026, Say Goodbye is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Say Goodbye centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape. Say Goodbye is a 1971 American documentary film about the relationship between humans and nature, directed by David H. Vowell. The film depicts the plight of various animal species at the hands of man and his influence. Some segments include the clubbing of seals on the Pribilof Islands, the effect of DDT on brown pelican populations in Texas, and the plight of severely endangered animals. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1971 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Say Goodbye has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Say Goodbye sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Say Goodbye (1971): with an audience rating of 5.8/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Documentary cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Say Goodbye has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.8/10, and global collection metrics, Say Goodbye stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1971 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Say Goodbye movie hit or flop?
Say Goodbye has received mixed reviews with a 5.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Say Goodbye worth watching?
Say Goodbye is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Say Goodbye online?
Say Goodbye may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Say Goodbye movie hit or flop?
Say Goodbye has received mixed reviews with a 5.8/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Say Goodbye worth watching?
Say Goodbye is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary movies, but read reviews first.
Where can I watch Say Goodbye online?
Say Goodbye may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of Say Goodbye?
Say Goodbye is a Documentary movie that follows: Say Goodbye is a 1971 American documentary film about the relationship between humans and nature, directed by David H. Vowell. The film depicts the plight of various animal species at the hands of man...
Is Say Goodbye family friendly?
Say Goodbye is classified as Documentary. We recommend checking the official age rating before watching with children.
What language is Say Goodbye available in?
Say Goodbye is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
Say Goodbye is a 1971 American documentary film about the relationship between humans and nature, directed by David H. Vowell. The film depicts the plight of various animal species at the hands of man and his influence. Some segments include the clubbing of seals on the Pribilof Islands, the effect of DDT on brown pelican populations in Texas, and the plight of severely endangered animals. It was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
Critic Reviews
If you are looking for an impartial environmental documentary here, then you will be disappointed. It is an unashamed conviction of man’s relationship with the animal kingdom, and it definitely doesn’t shy away from showing us the extent of that brutality. There is also a certain zealousness from Rod McKuen’s commentary as we are repeatedly informed that it is all too late. The damage being done cannot be argued with as the photography speaks for itself. The oft cited scene of the polar bear gunned down on the now blood-soaked ice whilst its cubs looked on. Even if they did survive the gunfire, starvation was all that awaited them now in the wild. This is a bloody film from start to finish and it’s effective message shows just how effortlessly human beings take lives, thwart births, alter terrains and most of those interferences come from the comfort and safety of a boat, or a plane, or a car - and we never have to use our claws or our teeth or our own brute strength. There is also quite a bit of slo-motion used here just to amplify the cruel treatment of the seals or the prairie dog cubs. Some of these “hunts” resulted in instantaneous death for the victims, some were left wounded and to die slowly and painfully, or to survive wounded and precariously exposed to other predators against whom they now had little chance. Now the narrative does over-egg things, and that exuberance coupled with some all too frequent hyperbole does undermine the potency of the writing, but there can be no denying the power of the imagery here and it must have been seriously impactful for anyone watching in 1971 who was hitherto just used to the Disneyfication of the animal kingdom - wherever it was in the world.