Monday, March 22, 2010

Life breathes life into Discovery Channel

     My article title is not a dig on the Discovery Channel.  On the contrary, I am always entertained when I sit down to watch a show.  However, the new series Life cause me to set my TiVo for a season pass.  For one, it's by the same people that brought you Planet Earth, and while I have not yet had a chance to watch that series, I have heard glowing things, and I did purchase a copy on DVD that I intend to get around to.  For another, well, do you need another reason?

     Last night, two episodes were premiered.  The first, "The Challenges of Life", brought a closer glimpse at a variety of species, and the hardship they must endure to survive.  It was a study of balance, for although I rooted for the cheetahs to bring down that ostrich, I rejoiced when the baby ibex escaped the fox.  The mother frog taking care of her tadpoles was especially interesting, and one couldn't help but feel sorry for the hippo who was denied a mate.  Florida Dolphins certainly proved their smarts.  Plants and seals were also featured, among others.

     The first episode skipped around frequently, perhaps owing to its broad topic, but its short segments were engaging.  The second episode last night was "Reptiles and Amphibians", which I look forward to viewing soon, and then next Sunday at 8 and 9pm, we get "Mammals" and "Fish".  Presumably, these may go a little more in depth, as the topic is narrower.  Ten hours in all are planned, with only one more taking a very broad topic as the first.

     The one complaint I have about series is the narration provided by Oprah Winfrey.  Don't have my head for saying it, but Oprah, as well respected and powerful as she is, does not provide the same pleasing tones that most nature show narrators do.  I would have preferred someone else, but it wasn't distracting enough to warrant major complaints.  Just a small gripe.

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