The ABC is set to captivate audiences with the Australian premiere of the reimagined series Walking With Dinosaurs on Tuesday, June 3, at 8 PM on ABC TV and iview. Narrated by the acclaimed actor Bertie Carvel, this six-part series revives the iconic BBC Studios production that first amazed viewers 25 years ago.
This latest iteration brings to life the dramatic tales of six dinosaurs, including the formidable Spinosaurus, the largest carnivorous dinosaur known to have roamed the Earth. Viewers will witness the Spinosaurus navigating the ancient rivers of Morocco, a fierce battle between a Triceratops and a ravenous T. rex in North America, and the poignant story of a giant Lusotitan in search of companionship in Portugal.
Revolutionizing Dinosaur Storytelling
The series takes a unique approach by focusing on the individual stories of dinosaurs whose fossils are currently being excavated by leading paleontologists. Thanks to advancements in science, experts can now provide a more accurate depiction of how these prehistoric giants lived, hunted, and ultimately met their demise.
State-of-the-art visual effects play a crucial role in bringing these ancient creatures back to life, transforming each episode into a gripping narrative that combines scientific accuracy with dramatic storytelling.
The Legacy of ‘Walking With Dinosaurs’
The original Walking With Dinosaurs series, which premiered in 1999, was a groundbreaking production that set new standards for documentary filmmaking. It combined cutting-edge technology with expert insights to offer an unprecedented look at the world of dinosaurs. The reimagined series aims to build on this legacy, incorporating the latest scientific discoveries and technological innovations.
According to the show’s executive producers, Andrew Cohen and Helen Thomas, the goal is to engage a new generation of viewers while providing fresh insights for long-time fans of the series. “We are thrilled to bring this beloved series back to life with a modern twist,” said Cohen. “The advancements in paleontology over the past two decades have allowed us to tell these stories with greater depth and accuracy.”
Global Collaboration and Production
Walking With Dinosaurs is a collaborative effort involving several international broadcasters, including ZDF and France Télévisions, alongside the BBC and PBS. The series is produced by the BBC Studios Science Unit, with showrunner Kirsty Wilson and producer/directors Stephen Cooter, Tom Hewitson, and Owen Gower at the helm.
BBC Studios is also responsible for global sales and co-production negotiations, ensuring that the series reaches audiences around the world. BBC Commissioning Editor Tom Coveney expressed excitement about the series’ potential impact, stating, “This is a truly global production that showcases the best of what international collaboration can achieve.”
Implications for Dinosaur Research
The premiere of Walking With Dinosaurs comes at a time when interest in paleontology is experiencing a resurgence. Recent discoveries and technological advancements have provided new insights into the lives of dinosaurs, challenging long-held assumptions and sparking renewed curiosity among scientists and the public alike.
Experts believe that the series could inspire a new generation of paleontologists and enthusiasts, encouraging them to explore the mysteries of the prehistoric world. “Television has the power to ignite passion and curiosity,” said Dr. Emily Harris, a paleontologist at the University of Sydney. “A series like this can play a significant role in shaping the future of dinosaur research.”
As audiences prepare to embark on this prehistoric journey, the ABC invites viewers to explore a range of factual series available on ABC iview, promising entertainment and education for all ages.
In acknowledging the cultural significance of the land, the ABC recognizes the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the first Australians and traditional custodians of the lands where these stories are shared.
