In an unveiling that mirrors the grandeur of Cannes for the small screen, MIPTV was the stage for the first look at ‘The Americas,’ a wildlife documentary series that promises to redefine the genre. Spearheaded by BBC and NBCUniversal, and graced by the narration of Tom Hanks, this series is not just a television event but a panoramic journey through the heart of the American wilderness.
Showcasing clips that ranged from heart-stopping to awe-inspiring, the audience at the international television conference was treated to a preview of what the series promises: a comprehensive portrait of the Americas, from the icy realms of the Arctic to the lush expanses of the Antarctic. Through state-of-the-art technology, viewers will journey alongside bears navigating cliffs and witness intimate moments in the animal kingdom, captured over five years and 180 expeditions.
Mike Gunton, the executive producer behind this colossal effort, shared insights into the making of ‘The Americas.’ His vision was to cover an expanse of the planet that, until now, had not been thoroughly explored on screen. “It’s the range that’s so exciting. From deserts to rainforests, the Americas have it all, except elephants,” Gunton remarked, highlighting the unparalleled biodiversity featured in the ten-episode series.
Creating ‘The Americas’ was a challenge that tested the patience and ingenuity of the crew. Animals, unpredictable by nature, often strayed from the script, leading to both missed opportunities and unexpected triumphs. Yet, it was this unpredictability that led to some of the series’ most memorable moments, such as a dramatic confrontation between wild stallions captured after years of patient filming.
Technological innovation played a crucial role in bringing the hidden secrets of the natural world to light. Gunton recounted a quest from his early career to document how sperm whales hunt—a quest that, thanks to advances in filming technology, has now been realized with breathtaking clarity in ‘The Americas.’
The involvement of Tom Hanks as the series’ narrator was a decision aimed at finding a voice that resonated with the grandeur and scope of the project. “Who else but Tom Hanks could be the American Richard Attenborough?” Toby Gorman, president of Universal Television Alternative Studio, mused on the choice. Hanks’ participation underscores the series’ narrative depth and emotional resonance.
Complementing Hanks’ narration is a score by Hans Zimmer, adding a layer of auditory grandeur to the visual spectacle. ‘The Americas’ stands as a testament to the commitment and resources NBCUniversal has invested, marking it as the network’s priciest non-scripted endeavor. Despite the high stakes and costs, Gorman expresses confidence in the series’ impact and relevance.
As ‘The Americas’ gears up for its 2025 premiere on NBC, it promises to be more than just a wildlife documentary. It is an invitation to experience the Americas like never before, through the lens of some of the most talented storytellers and innovators of our time.
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