Jessie Buckley narrates the extraordinary story of the first transatlantic communications cable. In 16 August 1858, a short message is telegraphed from County Kerry to Newfoundland, 3,000km away: ‘Europe and America are united by telegraph. Glory to God in the highest, on earth peace, good will towards men.’ The Morse code message is conducted along the new underwater transatlantic telegraph cable laid across the bed of the Atlantic Ocean. Sending the same message by ship would have taken at least ten days, but the transmission takes just hours and heralds the dawn of the modern communications age. The quest is driven by visionaries and pioneers. Among them are Cyrus Field, a wealthy businessman who, despite his immense success, ends his life in poverty; Samuel Morse, inventor of the telegraph and Morse code; Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the British engineer who pushes boundaries and budgets; and Belfast physicist Lord Kelvin, who calculates how to achieve what had hitherto been deemed impossible. Together, their ingenuity and relentless pursuit helps realise one of the great scientific accomplishments of their age for which Valentia, on Ireland’s remote western coast, is ground zero.
The second episode dives deeper into the enigmatic world of octopuses, uncovering the extraordinary intelligence of these cephalopods. From their ability to change color and shape in an instant to their sophisticated use of tools, this documentary reveals how octopuses navigate and survive in the ocean's most challenging environments. The documentary explores the profound cognitive abilities of octopuses, highlighting their potential for future planning, problem-solving, and even dreaming. Witness the coconut octopus's ingenious stilt-walking and shell-wielding tactics, and marvel at the giant Pacific octopus's intricate hunting strategies. Through stunning underwater footage and insights from leading scientists like Dr. Alex Schnell and Dr. C.E. O'Brien, viewers are invited to rethink what they know about intelligence in the animal kingdom. This captivating film showcases the remarkable adaptability and creativity of octopuses, making it a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the mysteries of the ocean.
Experience the powerful and heartwarming journey of four young girls as they prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime Daddy Daughter Dance event with their incarcerated fathers in Washington, D.C. This documentary offers an intimate glimpse into a unique fatherhood program that brings families together within the walls of a prison. For most of these daughters, this dance will be their only chance to hold or hug their fathers, some of whom are serving sentences as long as 20 years. As the dance approaches, the film delves deep into the emotional bonds between these girls and their dads, capturing moments of joy, heartache, and hope. ‘Daughters’ is a poignant and beautifully crafted story that makes a compelling case for second chances in a world often isolated and fractured.
Queen, the world's reigning rock champions, have captivated audiences for over five decades with their groundbreaking music and electrifying performances. From their humble beginnings in the suburbs of West London to their rise as rock legends, Queen has crafted some of the most iconic moments in rock history. Their hits, including the revolutionary ‘Bohemian Rhapsody,’ continue to resonate with fans worldwide. This documentary takes you on a thrilling journey through Queen's greatest moments, highlighting their indelible mark on music and culture. Join us as we delve into the band's phenomenal story, exploring their meteoric rise, their unparalleled showmanship, and the profound impact of their legendary frontman, Freddie Mercury. Witness Queen's remarkable journey from their formation to their unforgettable Live Aid performance, and experience the magic of their music that has stood the test of time. Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to their music, this documentary offers an intimate look at the band's legacy, their innovative sound, and the unforgettable moments that cemented their place in rock and roll immortality.
The fourth episode plunges us into the heart of the jungle for an exciting story of power, politics, and survival. Days after a fierce battle with Western rivals, Jackson, the alpha male, grapples with the aftermath of his injuries. The strength of an alpha is paramount, and physical frailty can quickly translate into political vulnerability. While Jackson's allies waver, Abrams and Wilson see a golden opportunity to seize control.
As Abrams makes strategic moves against Jackson, the forest resonates with news of the ongoing power struggle, attracting the attention of external threats. Battles for leadership are perilous, with uncertain outcomes for both the reigning alpha and the ambitious challenger. This episode promises an intriguing exploration of chimpanzee society and their relentless pursuit of dominance.
The film offers an unprecedented exploration into the life of Elizabeth Taylor, Hollywood's quintessential star. With extraordinary access to Taylor's personal archives and 40 hours of newly unearthed, intimate audio interviews with journalist Richard Meryman, audiences are invited to rediscover, not just a mega star of Hollywood's Golden Age, but a complex woman who navigated lifelong fame, personal identity, and public scrutiny on a global stage from early childhood. These candid conversations peel back the layers of one of cinema's most enduring icons, revealing a woman at odds with her public image, yearning for respect and agency. The film follows the life of an actress who defied the era's expectations by portraying strong-willed women on-screen, offering a nuanced portrait of the intersection of vulnerability and strength.
The quest is driven by visionaries and pioneers. Among them are Cyrus Field, a wealthy businessman who, despite his immense success, ends his life in poverty; Samuel Morse, inventor of the telegraph and Morse code; Isambard Kingdom Brunel, the British engineer who pushes boundaries and budgets; and Belfast physicist Lord Kelvin, who calculates how to achieve what had hitherto been deemed impossible. Together, their ingenuity and relentless pursuit helps realise one of the great scientific accomplishments of their age for which Valentia, on Ireland’s remote western coast, is ground zero.