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“The Americas,” NBC’s ambitious ten-part nature documentary series narrated by Tom Hanks, spans the diverse landscapes of the American continents, from the Atlantic coast to the heart of Patagonia. Filmed over five years and consisting of 180 expeditions, the series offers breathtaking cinematography and intimate wildlife encounters, positioning itself as a landmark addition to the nature documentary genre.
Each episode covers distinct ecosystems, recording phenomena such as North Carolina wild horses battling for supremacy and black bears navigating the Smoky Mountains. Cutting-edge filming takes a close-up and personal look at creatures such as the sand tiger shark along North Carolina’s coast, bringing to light intricate behaviors and survival strategies of wildlife.
However, beneath its stunning imagery lies a substantial oversight: the series largely sidesteps the pressing issue of climate change. In an era where environmental catastrophes are accelerating, “The Americas” opts for a vision of nature as pristine and untouched, with very little acknowledgment of human-induced impacts on these fragile ecosystems. This approach contrasts with the growing trend of environmental storytelling, whereby documentaries not only showcase natural beauty but also confront the challenges threatening it.
Research indicates that nature documentaries can influence the attitudes and behaviors of the public towards the environment. Through the emotional connection that they establish between audiences and wildlife and natural landscapes, the documentaries can encourage conservation and love for the planet. When such documentaries do not show environmental destruction, nevertheless, they can be viewed as only telling half the story, and with it, diminish the sense of urgency of conservation action.
The voiceover by Tom Hanks introduces a level of warmth and familiarity, something that is consistent with the series’ serene portrayal of nature. While his voiceover animates the storytelling, it also complements the series’ understated tone, which further distances it from the dire circumstances facing most species and ecosystems today.
In summary, “The Americas” is a tribute to the wonder of the natural world, allowing audiences to stand in awe of the wonders of the American continents. Yet in its refusal to address the environmental challenges of our time, it is a lovely but unfinished portrait, somewhat akin to looking at the world through blinkers during a period of immense change.
