Planet Earth

On Sunday night, the Discovery Channel unveils its highly anticipated series, Planet Earth. Filmed entirely in hi-def with cutting-edge filmmaking techniques, the show allows unique, close-up views of animal behavior. It took 71 camera people five years to capture the remarkable footage in these 11 episodes, which are sure to educate and inspire the whole family.

Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that this flat-out gorgeous high-definition nature series uses cutting-edge film equipment to capture never-before-seen animal behavior from around the world. Viewers' respect for nature and wildlife will grow with every scene -- with the impulse to protect the world's delicate balance likely to follow. Some scenes show animals hunting and killing their prey (often up close), which might frighten young viewers. But for families with kids old enough to understand basic animal behavior, the series will entertain and educate in a whole new way.

Families can talk about what sets this show apart from other nature series. Does the high-definition footage make that big a difference? Why? What's more exciting -- the way the show looks, or the animal behavior it presents? Did you learn anything new from this series? Families can also discuss nature and conservation. What does it mean for a species to be endangered? What factors contribute to endangerment? Compile ideas about recycling, saving energy, and other ways to help the environment. What effect do small changes like riding a bus instead of driving or taking a shorter shower have? How can people be encouraged to make little changes that matter?

Common Sense Review

Reviewed By: Emily Ashby

Never before have the world's many wonders been quite as accessible as they are in the stunning nature series PLANET EARTH. Filmed entirely in high definition and with cutting-edge filmmaking techniques that allow unique, close-up views of animal behavior, this show is likely to both awe and inspire you.

Elephants, lions, great white sharks, Emperor penguins, polar bears, dolphins, and many more star in this excellent series—which helps explain why it took 71 camera people five years to capture the footage used in the 11 episodes. They reach to the remotest corners of the earth and lead viewers through the planet's harshest deserts, richest jungles, and darkest caves.