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Soothing views of the apocalypse
LEORA HADAS points out the paradox that renders nature programmes apolitical and unable to transmit the urgency of the climate crisis
[Cartoon by Steve]

PERHAPS nothing embodies the BBC’s values of inform, educate and entertain more than its nature documentaries. Planet Earth III is the latest in a proud tradition going back to the founding of the BBC Natural History Unit in 1957 and has everything devoted fans (myself included) expect.

There are sweeping shots, a soaring orchestral soundtrack and exciting scenes of hunting, courtship and breeding. Tender family relations, desperate chases and amazing survival stories are all narrated in Sir David Attenborough’s signature style.

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