Storm of Thoughts

Exploring the Planet

Pete and I are constantly looking for new things to add to our Netflix queue. The endless stream of DVD’s coming to our door ensures that, not only do we get to watch new releases we’ve been waiting for, but we can also go back and watch old movies, try out new TV series from the beginning, and watch things we otherwise wouldn’t have seen. Recently, we decided to add Planet Earth to the list. This was made even more exciting by the fact that, since Christmas, we’ve had a Blu-ray disc player, and Netflix happens to carry Planet Earth on DVD. Last week, the first disc came. It sat around for a few days while we watched our regular TV favorites. But then, one night, it finally got its turn. And I have to say, I’m tempted to move the entire series to the top of the list immediately and forgo watching anything else until I’ve seen every second.

We knew it would be good. You don’t see images like this splashed all over the TV and think that the series will just be okay:

But you really can’t imagine the things they captured on film without seeing it for yourself. The first few episodes were so impressive, in fact, they almost can’t be described. (Although, for the sake of this post, of course, I’ll do my best.)

The high definition film-making is amazing in and of itself. The cameras capture colors and definition better than even perfect eyesight ever could. And the places the series takes you to are completely incredible - especially since very few are things you could experience otherwise. The series was filmed over (approximately) a five year period, although I’m shocked it took so little time to capture such rare sights. Half of the time, Pete and I can’t help but excitedly ask questions as we watch: “How close could that camera possibly be?” and “How long must they have been waiting to capture that?” and “HOW far did he just say they travel?!” Most of the time, though, we basically sit silently in awe of the scenery - surprising footage in the depths of the ocean, above the highest peaks, in the dusty plains, and within the deepest, darkest parts of the rain forest. If you’re like me, though, there is also plenty of “aww”ing and laughing at the animals. For example, baby polar bears coming out of their “cave” and tumbling down a snowy mountain for the first time? Or a Giant Panda huddled up, cradling its newborn, 900x smaller than itself? Really amazing to see.

The information itself, combined with the imagery, is also incredibly interesting. The second episode was about mountains, something that, on a normal day, I could take or leave. Yet for those 50 minutes, I sat riveted, hearing about the heights of the peaks and the animal life that can and can’t survive there. Ultimately, there’s nothing about this series that’s not to like.

All of which virtually adds up to Planet Earth being one of the best things we’ve ever watched. And, as a TV and movie person, that is not something I say lightly.

Have you watched any of Planet Earth? Have any favorite episodes? I’d love to hear what you think!

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