This Planet Earth

I'm sure you'll be seeing all sorts of superlatives used in conjunction with the BBC's latest epic nature documentary, Planet Earth, but don't dismiss them out of hand - this is one of those rare times when such praise is entirely deserved. The photography on show is simply stunning and the narrative enthralling. No Hollywood blockbuster has ever produced a chase more riveting or more emotionally involving than the impala's escape from the pack of hyena's. Several times during the show (alas, I missed the first 30 minutes - thanks immensely to Jonathan for reminding me it was on), I found myself wondering exactly how they'd achieved a seemingly impossible shot, only to be rewarded at the end of the programme with a short dvd style documentary on the production which answered just that question. A wonderful addition to an incredible programme.

Keep an eye out for this. I don't think I'm making too bold a claim to say it's the BBC, and perhaps television in general, at it's best.