An exclusive clip from the highly anticipated PBS documentary series, The Americas, has been released, featuring actor Tom Hanks narrating the fascinating courtship dance rituals of flamingos. Scheduled to air on March 25, 2025, at 7:30 PM, the series promises to dive deep into the wonders of wildlife across the diverse landscapes of the Americas, from the tempestuous beauty of the Amazon to the frozen tundras of the north.
For five years, The Americas has been meticulously crafted through the lens of cutting-edge technology, involving over 180 expeditions that showcase the breathtaking natural world. Each hour-long episode, narrated by Hanks, highlights a unique location, presenting a fresh narrative around the various ecosystems of the continent. Acclaimed composer Hans Zimmer provides the musical backdrop, adding a cinematic quality that amplifies the grandeur of the visuals.
Producer Mike Gunton draws attention to the significant shift in storytelling approach for this series. “There are a lot of answers to that,” explains Gunton, referring to the often brutal realities depicted in animal documentaries. “One of them is, we tell the truth. That’s what happened. We couldn’t tell them, ‘Could you please die for us?’” Gunton acknowledges the need for a more nuanced portrayal of wildlife, moving away from the sensationalized predation stories that have dominated previous narratives.
In an era where natural history programming has seen a resurgence, The Americas arrives as a beacon of what Gunton terms a “gentler” approach to the animal kingdom. While wildlife shows often focus on the harsh realities of predation, this series tenderly chronicles the interconnected stories of survival, relationships, and familial bonds in nature. Gunton reflects, “That’s not because I’m squeamish, it’s just I don’t think it’s that interesting.”
Technologically speaking, The Americas stands at the forefront of natural history filmmaking. The incorporation of drones has transformed how filmmakers capture animal behaviors, allowing for an intimate glimpse into their lives that traditional filming methods could not achieve. Gunton emphasizes, “What I love about the new technology is not the technology for its own sake, but what it can then reveal about animals that you couldn’t see before.” This marks a significant evolution in how stories are told through wildlife documentaries.
The series not only showcases the grandeur of the Americas but also furthers a crucial narrative that resonates at a time when cultural themes of nationalism are prevalent. Gunton notes, “There are no politics in this whatsoever, but it’s quite a patriotic show. Whether you live in the Caribbean or in Mexico or in Manhattan, you are going to feel proud of where you live because these animals share their home with you.” This sense of shared pride is integral to the series’ mission, as it aims to highlight the natural beauty that is obscured by contemporary political narratives.
What distinguishes The Americas from other animal documentaries is its commitment to presenting the ecosystem as a vibrant entity, thriving irrespective of human intervention. Gunton states, “Humbling may be a response, but I think it’s also thought-provoking. These lives are going on irrespective of us.” By peeling back the layers of these ecosystems, the documentary invites viewers to rethink their place in the world and the broader implications of human activity on nature.
As the premiere date draws near, audiences are encouraged to prepare for a transformative experience through the lens of The Americas. The series promises to forge a deeper connection between humans and the natural kingdom, showcasing not only the beauty of the landscapes but the lives of the animals that inhabit them. Gunton hopes that viewers come away with a renewed love for nature and an understanding that all beings share similar foundational challenges: “Looking after your babies. Trying to get a girlfriend. Trying to get a boyfriend. Trying to find food.”
Ultimately, The Americas is poised to capture the hearts of its audience, sparking empathy and appreciation for the complexities of life beyond the human experience, gently urging viewers to revel in the myriad wonders of the natural world.
