The Ark never falls into the easy trap of simplifying the issues or sentimentalising the animals, and Dineen's distinctive style, unlike the cool pseudo-scientific observation of much fly-on-the-wall fare, is best described as "warmly objective". Although unseen, Dineen leaves her questions on the soundtrack and her presence is felt throughout as she moves chameleon-like between the warring factions. With only a two-person crew (with sound recordist Phil Streather) Dineen could afford to shoot a lot of film. As a result, subjects talk with remarkable candour and nothing of the drama seems lost.