TV50: Television and Natural History
(1986)
Tracing the development of wildlife films on television, renowned zoologist Desmond Morris presents the programmes and personalities that have shaped our view of the natural world. Broadcast in 1986, as part the BBC's fiftieth anniversary celebrations, this hour long special interweaves footage from a variety of past productions with commentary from an assortment of high-profile interviewees.
Renowned wildlife cinematographer Alan Root is seen at work, while Oxford Scientific Film (OSF) employees busy themselves filming, and the cameramen for The Flight of the Snow Geese reveal the secrets behind this award-winning Survival programme.
An enjoyable account of how the industry has evolved, a "Who's Who" of the natural history filmmaking discuss the shift away from anthropomorphism, the attitude of the viewing public and the difficulties involved in filming creatures in their natural habitat.
With everyone from David Attenborough to Partridge Films' founder Mike Rosenburg relating their experiences and sharing their extensive knowledge, Television and Natural History is a fascinating insight into this highly popular, yet specialised field.
