As said many times, David Attenborough is a national treasure. He may apparently dislike the term, but it is hard to not say that about such a great presenter who has contributed significantly to some of the best documentaries there's ever been. Even lesser work, such as 'The Penguin King', is still more than worthwhile.
It is really hard picking favourites, let alone a definite favourite, among what Attenborough has done because he has done so many gems. It is the equivalent of trying to choose your favourite ice cream flavour or your favourite operatic role (for examples) and finding you can't pick. 'Charles Darwin and the Tree of Life' may not be Attenborough at his best, other work of his connects more emotionally with me, but for an understanding of Darwin, his theories and what makes them so interesting and controversial it doesn't get much better and is a must see.
For me it is very hard not reiterating what was said in reviews of Attenborough's previous work because consistently they have exactly the same strengths in quality. While not quite one of Attenborough's most visually beautiful offerings, 'Charles Darwin and the Tree of Life' as to be expected looks great. It is beautifully filmed, done in a completely fluid and natural, sometimes intimate way and there is nothing static about it at all. The editing is smooth and succinct. The music fits well and is memorable.
Using the likes of DNA and fossils to back up what is said, what the viewer is told is constantly fascinating for children and adults alike (when it comes to Attenborough's work the programme is one of the most interesting and perhaps important for a younger viewer), nothing is trivialised, nothing confuses and nothing patronises. There are complex and controversial theories of evolution presented, and done in a way that's easy to understand and plausible while also examining why the theories have the reception they do today and why they were revolutionary. Found myself learning a lot and found that even familiar knowledge was expanded upon.
Attenborough is a huge part of the appeal, of course, and his contribution helps significantly. He is very candid, clearly knowing his stuff and knowing what to say and how to say it. He delivers it with his usual richness, soft-spoken enthusiasm and sincerity, never talking down to the viewer and keeping them riveted and wanting to know more.
In summary, not one of Attenborough's finest but still a must see and important if wanting or needing to know more about the subject of evolution. 9/10 Bethany Cox
