National Geographic (DStv 181 / StarSat 220 / Cell C black 261) has commissioned a new 6-part documentary series, Hostile Planet, that will be looking at the way in which animals have found ways to survive and adapt in some of the world's most inhospitable places.
Hostile Planet will be produced by director Guillermo Navarro who will also serve as executive director, and Plimsoll Productions.
"Set against the backdrop of a more violent and volatile climate, the battles for survival take on a new urgency as animals face intensified wildfires, blizzards, droughts and downpours. To some, the new challenges are too much, but for others, it presents new opportunities," says National Geographic.
Hostile Planet uses new camera technology to allow a close-up vantage point as the animals navigate through their changing landscapes. Each episode explores one the planet's roughest environments – including jungles, mountains, deserts, oceans, the poles and grasslands – and how each of its inhabitants acclimate to its turn of events.
"The series celebrates the surprising resiliency of animals that survive and thrive in the face of adversity," says Tim Pastore, National Geographic president of original production and programming in a statement.
"Not only do we showcase animals during their most dramatic, culminating moments, we also explore the consequences of a changing climate by immersing the viewer into an emotional narrative."
Guillermo Navarro says "It's an incredible honor to bring my vision to life with National Geographic, which is known for its unparalleled wildlife storytelling. With Hostile Planet, I am able to build a visual narrative to capture environments where species face the most critical state of our times."
"National Geographic permits us to push the boundaries of this genre as only this network can do," says Grant Mansfield, CEO of Plimsoll Productions. "With this freedom, we are creating a dynamic saga of life on Earth that’s exhilarating and fascinating. Just because there's life, it doesn't mean living is easy."
