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AMERICAS, THE

Wow! The Americas is an incredible docu-series about North and South America with breathtaking views of the land and the animals that live there. I really enjoyed Tom Hanks' narration; his unique storytelling brings the beauty and struggles of nature to life. Every episode is filled with jaw-dropping shots that made me appreciate the wild world around us.

The Americas is a ten-episode television series that explores the unique animals and landscapes of the vast North and South America. Scored by composer Hans Zimmer and narrated by Tom Hanks, the series shows how different species survive and adapt while also highlighting the effects of climate change and human activity. Each episode focuses on a different region, giving a close look at the fascinating wildlife and environments that make it special. From the fast-paced lives of ants to the mesmerizing creatures of the deep ocean, the documentary captures nature's wonders like never before.

This series is visually amazing with its groundbreaking cinematography. The filmmakers use advanced drone technology to glide over vast landscapes, night-vision cameras to reveal the secret lives of nocturnal animals, and slow-motion footage to capture the precise moment a predator strikes. These techniques made me feel like I was right there in the wild. Tom Hanks' narration adds warmth and curiosity to the show. Zimmer's soundtrack builds tension during dramatic moments and enhances the wonder of peaceful scenes. My favorite part is when the mother snake goes above and beyond for her baby snakes, showing the incredible instinct and care animals have for their young. The filmmakers also capture a massive storm in stunning detail, showcasing the sheer power of nature in a way that feels both terrifying and beautiful.

The show's message is about protecting nature. It shows the dangers of deforestation, pollution, and climate change and encourages people to take action. The series raises awareness and makes viewers think about how each one of us can help preserve the environment. Be forewarned that some scenes of predators hunting their prey are pretty graphic and unsuited for younger viewers.

I give The Americas 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The show premieres on NBC on February 23, 2025.

By Eva M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17

I really like The Americas because the music evokes emotions and the videography is both beautiful and shot up close.

The Americas is a documentary narrated by Tom Hanks that follows animals living in the Americas and their lifestyles. It describes and shows incredible places and dives into the struggles of animal life. The Americas is both an exciting adventure and an informative documentary.

The TV series The Americas contains music that evokes emotions such as excitement, awe, curiosity, and fear. For example, in one episode, we see a dangerous prairie snake and hear music that brings out feelings of fear. In the same episode, we see it rain in the Sonoran Desert for the first time in two months. The music put behind this scene creates a feeling of awe. Similarly, when a thunderstorm in The Great Plains approaches, the music that accompanies it evokes a feeling of fear. The music also matches the theme of the episode. For instance, in a western themed episode, there is western music that goes with it. The music draws people in. Another aspect that draws people in is Tom Hanks's use of imagery and descriptive language. As well as the music, the videography is another thing that makes The Americas so exciting to watch. We see close up shots of wild animals and their environments which makes the scenes seem as if they are happening right in front of you. In one episode, we see a close up of a coyote hunting a fish and in another scene; we see a prairie snake giving birth. We see shots of encounters between animals. For example, in one scene, we see a protective mother chasing off an intruding bear to keep her cubs safe. There is also incredible underwater footage that makes it feel as if you are really there. The transitions are also excellent. Incredible and beautiful landscape shots are often used as transitions. Overall, the music and videography make this series exciting and amazing to watch.

The message of The Americas is that we must be careful when we continue expanding land to make room for the incredible life that is flourishing all over the continent.

I give The Americas 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18 plus adults. It is premiering on February 23, 2025 on NBC.

By Charlotte L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critics, age 14

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The Americas showcases the wonders, secrets and fragilities of the world's greatest supercontinent. The Americas uses cutting-edge technology to uncover never-before-seen behavior, and highlight extraordinary, untold wildlife stories. Five years in the making and filmed over 180 expeditions, this groundbreaking series reveals the spectacular landscapes of Earth's most varied landmass - the only one to stretch between both poles. "The Americas" unprecedented scale and ambition delivers remarkable world firsts; new species, new intimate courtship, dramatic deep sea hunting and some of nature's strangest stories - even a frog that seems to defy death every day. Tom Hanks narrates and Hans Zimmer scores the soundtrack.