The Blue Planet: Introduction
(2001)
A ground-breaking production with images provding the emphasis, The Blue Planet was the first ever series wholly concerning the natural history of the oceans. The first of eight installments, Introduction sets the scene for the following programmes, exploring the immense influence the oceans have on our climate and the complex and little understood ecosystems they play host to.
This award-winning blockbuster series was produced by Alastair Fothergill, a major undertaking, it saw him relinquishing his position as head of the BBC Natural History Unit to concentrate all his efforts on the ambitious five year project. Filmed in locales all over the world, stunning cinematography examines the unusual behaviour and intriguing interactions of the creatures that inhabit this mysterious underwater world. From some of the world’s largest mammals to microscopic algae, and from massive shoals to solitary deep-sea fish, this epic production highlights the sheer range and intricacy of this huge blue entity.
An insightful commentary from David Attenborough is brought to life by visually spectacular footage, providing continual evidence of the pure power, scale and complexity of this vast expanse. Over 400,000 Ridley’s turtles lay an estimated 40 million eggs along just one mile of beach, whilst dolphins work together to ensnare sardines in a wall of bubbles and a pod of orcas chase down a defenceless grey whale calf.
Beautifully filmed The Blue Planet: Introduction is an intriguing and absorbing account of the Earth’s final frontier, and the integral role it plays in our lives.
The Blue Planet: The Deep (2001)
