DVD Review: Human Planet - The Complete Series

Mankind is one determined species. Human beings have settled in every environment on Earth, always finding a way to adapt to whatever conditions they land in. Even in places like deserts, the ocean, and the Arctic, which would not be natural environments for the intelligent mammals, someone has found a way to build a life there. This struggle and achievement is brought to life in vivid detail in the BBC's Human Planet, the Complete Series of which is now available on DVD.

Human Planet follows the trend of Life and Planet Earth in uncovering everything the globe has to offer. It contains about eighty stories split into eight parts over four hundred attention grabbing minutes. Those parts are divide by terrain, covering oceans, deserts, the Arctic, jungles, mountains, grasslands, rivers, and cities. Filmed over three years in more than forty countries, and some very, very remote locations, Human Planet is a true tour of the rock we all live on. There are far more than a few sights that most people will never see, and thus, this is invaluable collection for anyone interested in their planet. Spectacular views and strange customs will open the viewer's eyes to ways of life never considered.

Many nature specials focus on animals. Yet, mankind is animal, and doesn't get half as much attention from an objective perspective. Human Planet is a study into what makes humans tick. There is simple observation, to be sure, but there is also an examination on why people choose to live in places they aren't meant to. Of course, there is no rational, simple explanation. But the species is not simple or rational. Instead, a broad picture is painted, and it is up to the viewer to draw their own conclusions. It's a highly interactive and satisfying exercise that will give any watcher much to ponder long after the series is viewed.

This DVD contains the original British version of the show, which means it is narrated by John Hurt (Harry Potter) instead of Mike Rowe (Dirty Jobs), who lent his voice to the Discovery Channel's air dates in the states. It's also three hours longer than what Americans were able to watch on TV, so even if you were able to catch Human Planet last spring, it is well worth purchasing this DVD, as there is plenty more to see.

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Article Author: JeromeWetzelTV

Jerome Wetzel has hosted two entertainment based podcasts, "Geek Out With Jimmy" and "The Good, The Bad, & The Geeky". He is also the author of the An Actor's Nightmare book series. He currently writes television reviews for examiner.com and blogcritics.org. …

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