Plot: What’s it about?
When you think of harsh, rugged wilderness, few places on our planet can match the Arctic and Antarctic. These areas sport bitter cold, brutal condition, and rapidly changing landscapes, yet life is ever present even in this locales. In Frozen Planet, we’re taken to these remote locations and given a one of a kind tour of the frigid areas. This seven part series shows us these regions like never before, with an attention to detail that is simply breathtaking. An episode is devoted to each of the seasons, showing us how these locales change within them and how life adjusts to the changes. Other episodes focus on how man has adapted to these regions, the threat of the environmental changes, and an introduction episode that gives us a broad overview and welcome to these chilling locales. With narration from Richard Attenborough and some of the most spectacular visuals you’ll ever see, Frozen Planet is yet another BBC masterpiece of documenting nature.
Video: How does it look?
The episodes are presented in 1.78:1 widescreen. The 1080i visuals are gorgeous, with razor sharp detail and depth that makes you feel like you’re looking through a window. The frozen worlds really come to life here, with even the most minor detail in crystal clear presence. The colors are flawless (and there is more color than you might think), while contrast is also excellent, which is crucial in this case. This could easily become one of your demo discs, as the visuals just sparkle and you can’t help but be impressed with the wonders of nature on showcase.
Audio: How does it sound?
While the visuals are hard to compete with, this DTS HD 5.1 soundtrack more than holds its own. The music sounds epic and rarely overpowers the natural elements, which is great news. The sounds of nature bound through the speakers, putting you right into the wild. Even the cold, bitter winds sound so close that you might get up to close a window. Just an immersive, highly effective audio presentation.
Supplements: What are the extras?
Each episode has a ten minute behind the scenes piece, but you can also watch 47 brief behind the scenes segments in the Production Video Diaries. These can be quite good, showing the lengths the crew went to secure the visuals, as well as the trials & tribulations of such a project. You can also watch an hour long program that highlights the series’ best moments, in case you just want a quick session.
