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To End All War: Oppenheimer and the Atomic Bomb

   2023    Technology
The true story of physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer's journey from driven and ambitious scientist to remorseful and tormented man struck hard by the gravity of what he had done. For Oppenheimer, the successful detonation of the first atom bomb validates years of tireless work. But in this moment of seeming triumph, Oppenheimer sees before him a destructive power of almost supernatural magnitude.
The films explores how one man's brilliance, hubris and relentless drive changed the nature of war forever.

Our Precious Isles

   2023    Nature
In the first episode, Sir David Attenborough reveals the unexpected wildlife riches of the British Isles, showcasing the dramatic and spectacular habitats that rival any across the globe. This journey uncovers the diversity of life in the UK's unique landscapes, from the intricate world of bumblebees to the swift lives of kingfishers. The episode captures extraordinary scenes of nature, including killer whales preying on seals, golden eagles in the Scottish mountains, the cunning tactics of woodland plants, and the perilous life of puffins evading gulls. It highlights Britain's geological diversity as a cornerstone of its natural wealth, contributing to an array of habitats and supporting a wide range of life.
Britain's importance extends to being a haven for migratory birds, with our seas feeding 65% of the world's gannets and supporting the largest colony of northern gannets on Scotland's Bass Rock. The west coast of Scotland offers sanctuary to barnacle geese due to its abundant food and mild climate, though they remain vigilant against hunting sea eagles. Despite these natural treasures, Britain faces challenges as one of the most nature-depleted countries globally. Sir David Attenborough emphasizes the need to conserve and restore these wild isles for the enjoyment and benefit of future generations.
Series: Wild Isles

The Black Death

   2023    Medicine
In an enthralling documentary, Dan Snow and archaeologist Raksha Dave delve into the catastrophic impact of the Black Death on Britain 700 years ago, a pandemic that extinguished around half of the population, or three million people. The duo embarks on a journey to trace the origins and merciless spread of the plague, starting from its arrival on Britain's South coast in June 1348, through the bustling trade routes that brought the disease to Melcombe Regis, Dorset. Their investigation takes them to various hotspots of the outbreak, including the Old Operating Theatre in London and Wildwood Animal Sanctuary in Kent, where they explore the role of rats in dispersing the bubonic plague. Through dramatic reconstructions and visits to places like Nottingham University's biomedical laboratories, they uncover the rapid spread and deadly impact of the plague, offering a month-by-month account of how it ravaged the country, decimating cities, towns, and villages alike.
The documentary not only showcases the horrific symptoms and desperate attempts at cures through brutal medical practices of the time but also leverages cutting-edge research to explain why the Black Death remains the deadliest pandemic in history. The personal stories of victims, from princes to paupers, are brought to light, revealing the indiscriminate nature of the disease. Dan's visit to Canterbury Cathedral and Raksha's investigation into the recent discovery of mass graves beneath a tranquil London square underline the widespread desperation and devastation. Their journey through the history of the Black Death, culminating in the discovery of its indiscriminate toll and the unveiling of mass graves in London, not only sheds light on the darkest chapters of British history but also ignites a profound understanding of the tragedy, making a compelling case for why this documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in the profound impacts of pandemics on human society.

How Time and Consciousness Arise

   2024    Science    HD
The documentary, an own production, immerses the viewer in a journey that blends science and philosophy, questioning the nature of time and unveiling a 4-dimensional universe, where space and time are integrated. We are invited to consider a universe in which past, present, and future coexist, suggesting that our linear perception of time might be more of a mental construction than a physical reality. The narrative progresses by exploring how quantum particles exist in states of probability until they are observed, at which point they acquire defined properties. Then, the provocative hypothesis is presented that observation also fixes the temporal dimension of the particles.
The sensation of the flow of time and the distinction between past, present, and future are introduced as mental constructions, arising from the human brain's limited capacity to process the complexity of reality. It is then proposed that the mind, by observing itself, fixes itself in the temporal dimension, thus creating the illusion of the present. Finally, the impact of these theories on free will is discussed.
This documentary challenges viewers to look beyond their everyday perceptions and consider the possibility that reality is much more complex and fascinating than our immediate experiences suggest. It is an invitation to explore the limits of science, philosophy, and the mind itself in search of answers to some of the deepest questions of existence.
More information on https://www.javier-serrano.blog/Ciencia/representacion_tridimensional_del_universo.php

Planet Earth III: Heroes

   2023    Nature
In this captivating final episode of the series we meet some incredible conservation champions on nature's front line, fighting to preserve the future of our beautiful planet. The episode opens with a dramatic rescue operation for the critically endangered black rhino, showcasing the efforts of Dumi Zwane and his team to establish a new breeding colony in a safe haven. The focus then shifts to the Centro Jambatu research center in the Andes, where Jaime Culebras works tirelessly to save the last of certain frog species. The documentary also highlights the efforts of Trang Nguyen, who bravely infiltrates the illegal wildlife trade in West Africa to protect forest elephants from ivory poachers. Meanwhile, in Vienna, Katharina Huchler undertakes a remarkable journey to reintroduce the northern bald ibis to Europe after its extinction 400 years ago. Indigenous leader Alessandra Korap's battle to preserve the Amazon rainforest from exploitation is a key focus, alongside Mohamed Nasheed's fight against climate change to save coral reefs and his country.
This episode addresses the broader issue of habitat destruction, emphasizing its role as a primary driver of extinction. It poignantly demonstrates the interconnectivity of life on Earth and the critical importance of conservation efforts.
Series: Planet Earth III

In the Shadow of Giants

   2023    Science
The fifth episode of the series is a fascinating exploration of the dinosaur era and its impact on the evolution of life on Earth. Through a journey of 200 million years, we discover how the breakup of Pangea and tectonic changes shaped biodiversity and created environments for dinosaurs and other forms of life to flourish. From the majestic Diplodocus to the formidable Allosaurus, the documentary brings to life the giants that once dominated our planet. Additionally, it shows the evolution of plants, highlighting the emergence of flowers and their symbiotic relationship with insects, such as termites and ants, whose social and evolutionary dynamics are explored in depth. The narrative also addresses the rise of mammals and their coexistence with dinosaurs, highlighting species such as the Numbat and their struggle for survival.
With stunning imagery and a captivating narrative, this episode is an invitation to learn, marvel, and reflect on the extraordinary history of life on Earth.
Series: Life on Our Planet
Reel Rock

Reel Rock

2014  Culture
Life

Life

2009  Nature
History of the World

History of the World

2012  History
The Jinx

The Jinx

  History