One Strange Rock
By Mark Dolan,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Captivating, gorgeous science series looks at the Earth.
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One Strange Rock
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Based on 8 parent reviews
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What's the Story?
Each week on ONE STRANGE ROCK, host Will Smith presents an overall concept -- one week it might be "breathing," the next, "asteroids." From this starting point, the series widens its focus to explore these concepts from a variety of unique angles. Eight former astronauts weigh in from the perspective of having seen the planet from space or lived off-world in the International Space Station for extended periods of time. We meet other specialized scientists from a variety of places across the globe who explain how different natural phenomena impact each other, like how a sand storm in Africa affects the life of the Amazon rainforest. It's these surprising connections that drive each episode and keep you watching even if science has never been your thing.
Is It Any Good?
This series does a tremendous job making science accessible to all audiences. Beautiful high-definition imagery keeps your eyes glued to One Strange Rock, and the content is organized in a surprising way so you're never quite sure where one concept is going to take you or how two seemingly distinct natural events will somehow connect. Don't expect too much Will Smith. The filmmakers use him creatively and sparingly to set up unique framing devices and intriguing teases before commercial breaks. He brings a grounded sensibility to the often mind-blowing concepts on display and fits seamlessly into this highly original take on the science documentary.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how science and nature are generally presented on TV. How is One Strange Rock different from other science shows you've watched?
The show introduces astronauts who've spent anywhere from eight days to six months in space. What do you think the best part of living in space would be? What about the worst?
Families can talk about curiosity. How do some of the scientists on this series display this character strength?
TV Details
- Premiere date: March 26, 2018
- Cast: Will Smith
- Network: National Geographic Channel
- Genre: Educational
- Topics: Science and Nature
- TV rating: NR
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: February 18, 2023
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