Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #15415 in DVD
• Released on: 2005-04-25
• Rating: Exempt
• Aspect ratio: 1.78:1
• Format: PAL
• Original language: English
• Number of discs: 2
• Running time: 250 minutes

Synopsis
Using computer graphics, this programme traces the evolutionary steps which have led to today's diversity of species.

Customer Reviews

A very good DVD on the evolution of life
I had some knowledge about the evolution of life before watching this DVD but felt hat I needed to develop my knowledge about it a little more.I enjoyed watching and learning about the evolutionary stages of just about all forms of animal and plant life on Earth. The explanation of the evolution of humans was particularly interesting. The picture and sound quality is very good, explanations clear and to the point. I think this DVD can teach absolute beginners and also people who are already experts on the topic. Ideas about the probable future evolution of humans is also given.The question of " how did the present state of affairs come into being ? how and why did this develop or evolve this way ? " is raised several times during the DVD followed by flashbacks to millions sometimes even billions of years ago to get to the root of the causes and developments. Steve Leonard who appears on the DVD from time to time is sympathetic, talks clearly and uses humor at the right dose. I strongly recommend this DVD to anyone who is curious about the evolution and the peresent sate of life forms on Earth.

A sensible, informal survey of living creatures
Five one-hour programs - life in the sea, then land and then air. Animal predators, parasites and cooperators. Human life - how we became different from the other apes and why chimps can't tie a shoelace.

BBC excels AGAIN in natural history dept.
A superb from TV natural history documentary - one of the best I have seen in a long while. This superbly filmed 2 disc offering, 4 hours and 50 minutes, is what the BBC does so well - and it sits perfectly alongside any collection of David Attenborough documentaries!
Steve Leonard is a superb choice to lead us through the complete history of evolution - explaining in detail HOW life comes to be where it is today - from the first hints of life to multi-cellular humans, and even beyond! - close on 5 hours, never before spent so well! Everything is explained in detail, without being patronising, dumbed down, or too boring, and the filming is a visual treat all the way through. There is no frustrating overlay of needless music either, as seen in so many other productions (even some BBC, like Deep Blue) - often drowning out the narration. Here, any music is coincidental, and quiet enough so we can actually hear what is being said, or just listen to the natural background sounds.
Use is made of technology too, with computerised imagery used to good effect - demonstrating points, though never over dramatising. This is truly a set worth buying if you are at all curious about the world around you, and have any sense of wonder or desire for education - yet it is probably pitched just right for the average person to benefit fully from it. You may just become addicted!