Planet Earth III
By Joly Herman,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Attenborough's masterful series talks adaptation, has peril.
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Planet Earth III
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What's the Story?
In OUR PLANET III, the cameras fly above deserts to spy two desert lion sisters pad across the sand to the sea. The cats spot a massive flock of sea cormorants, and instinctively wait until nightfall to make a move. Night-vision cameras catch their rollicking attempts to chase and hunt the birds. In other scenes, sea birds and turtles are shown protecting offspring from predators and from storms. Expert wildlife documentarian David Attenborough guides viewers across land, into forests and oceans, across deserts -- even near cities -- to capture images and sounds of animals while they continue to adapt to life on our planet, as they've been doing for many thousands of years.
Is It Any Good?
An astounding nature documentary, this series might represent a masterwork for a storyteller who's been documenting life on Earth for the past six decades. In Planet Earth III, David Attenborough manages to balance being gentle and somber at the same time. He lends gravitas to the oncoming black storm that's bound to decimate the fledgling population of a flock of flamingos. Bright moments receive their time too, such as seals who join in formation to turn the tides on a great white predator. Attenborough knows how grave the environmental challenges are, but he also understand his audience. Viewers want to be inspired, not sink into despair.
There's nothing like the present moment to create a better future, this show seems to say. Kids and parents will have lots to talk about after viewing this series together.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about compassion in Planet Earth III. How do the makers of this series react when they see a turtle in peril? Do they walk away?
Perseverance means to continue trying to do something until you succeed. How do animals in this show exhibit perseverance?
Courage comes in many forms in this show. How do smaller animals work together to defeat their foes? How do you show your courage in your life?
TV Details
- Premiere date: November 4, 2023
- Cast: David Attenborough
- Network: BBC America
- Genre: Educational
- Topics: Activism , Ocean Creatures , Science and Nature , Wild Animals
- Character Strengths: Compassion , Courage , Perseverance
- TV rating: TV-PG
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: December 25, 2023
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