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What’s the Story?

Reviewed by Emily Ashby

DISCOVERY ATLAS is a beautifully crafted documentary series that transports viewers to distant lands and introduces them to the diverse cultures, rich heritages, and natural beauty of 20 of the world's amazing countries. The extensive project paints multi-dimensional portraits of life around the world by featuring in-depth interviews with real-life people who exemplify the cultural, recreational, and socio-economic diversity within each country. As the cameras capture the subjects' day-to-day lives, a narrator (usually a celebrity like James Spader, Russell Crowe, or Isabella Rossellini) discusses the historical events that have led to the citizens' current situations. For example, the installment that focuses on China introduces viewers to a billionaire entrepreneur, an aspiring Olympic gymnast, a kung fu master, and a rice-farming family, who through translators discuss their family lives, economics, and aspirations. Their diversity is testament to the challenges of the world's largest country, which struggles to maintain balance between its ancient history -- as explained throughout the show -- and its potential as a world leader in the near future.

Is It Any Good?

4

Discovery Atlas combines stunning cinematography, expert narration, and striking graphics in a captivating, multimedia experience that's a great choice for family viewing. Parents and kids -- grade-schoolers and up -- will enjoy learning more about these fascinating countries together.

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