🪶 Story & Synopsis
In the captivating TV series “Civilizations,” viewers are taken on a mesmerizing journey across the globe, exploring a myriad of cultural landmarks that have shaped human history. Presented by esteemed historians Simon Schama, Mary Beard, and David Olusoga, the series delves into the essence of humanity’s creative expression and the quest for the fundamental meaning of life.
Across nine enlightening episodes, “Civilizations” transcends boundaries and chronicles the artistic and historical evolution of civilizations worldwide. From the grand mosques of Istanbul to the ancient cities of Mesoamerica, the Buddhist caves of Ajanta in India, the Aztecs’ Templo Mayor in modern Mexico City, and the burial site of China’s first emperor, the series paints a vivid tapestry of human creativity and cultural diversity.
Delving into a wide array of topics, the series explores the earliest human cultural artifacts, the depiction of the body in art, the repercussions of civilizations encountering one another, and the concept of “renaissances” across different corners of the world. At the core of “Civilizations” lies an exploration of how humanity’s creative imagination serves as a conduit for expressing its intrinsic nature and seeking profound truths about existence.
Produced by the BBC in collaboration with PBS, “Civilizations” is a riveting documentary that offers a fresh perspective on the history of art on a global scale. With a stellar team of executive producers including Denys Blakeway, Michael Jackson, Mark Bell, and Jonty Claypole, the series unfolds as a visual feast for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Through its meticulously crafted narrative and breathtaking visuals, “Civilizations” invites audiences to ponder the rise and fall of ancient civilizations. From internal transformations and external pressures to environmental crises, the series sheds light on the multifaceted reasons behind the decline of once-mighty empires.
As viewers embark on a virtual time-travel across millennia, they witness the intricate interplay of factors such as war, famine, climate change, and overpopulation that have contributed to the demise of illustrious civilizations. The series prompts contemplation on the cyclical nature of history and the enduring legacy of past societies.
Moreover, “Civilizations” poses thought-provoking questions about the age-old concept of civilization, tracing its roots back to the dawn of human history. From the emergence of sedentary cultures in the Levant around 12,000 BC to the transition to agricultural societies by 10,000 BC, the series unravels the fascinating evolution of human civilization.
With its rich tapestry of cultural insights, historical revelations, and artistic wonders, “Civilizations” stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of human creativity and the timeless quest for understanding the essence of civilization. This groundbreaking series is a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the intricate tapestry of human history and the profound impact of art on society.
🧑 Cast & Crew
| Actors | Role |
|---|---|
| Simon Schama | Presenter |
| Mary Beard | Presenter |
| David Olusoga | Presenter |
| Liev Schreiber | Series Narrator (PBS Release) |
| Tandis Jenhudson | Composer |
💬 Reviews and feedback
Lights, camera, civilizations! ✨ Welcome to the grand premiere of the TV show that takes you on a global art expedition – ‘Civilizations.’ This isn’t your average art class; it’s a whirlwind tour through the ages, exploring artistic achievements from all corners of the world. Think of it as an artistic Avengers team-up, but instead of saving the world, they’re here to dazzle your senses and expand your cultural horizons.
The trio of presenters – Simon Schama, Mary Beard, and David Olusoga – are like the three musketeers of art history, leading you through a treasure trove of creativity. With music composed by Tandis Jenhudson setting the perfect mood for each adventure, you’ll find yourself immersed in a symphony of visual storytelling.
The show doesn’t just focus on Europe’s grandeur; it delves into civilizations across the globe. From Mesopotamia to Egypt, from the Indus Valley to China and Central America – no artistic stone is left unturned. It’s like a global potluck where each civilization brings its unique flavor to the table.
But does this cultural feast hit all the right notes? Let’s break it down:
Plot and Themes:
‘Civilizations’ isn’t just a stroll through museums; it’s a deep dive into the soul of humanity expressed through art. The series beautifully weaves together narratives from different cultures, highlighting both triumphs and tribulations. It’s not just about admiring beauty; it’s about understanding the stories behind each masterpiece.
Acting and Characters:
While we don’t have traditional actors here, our presenters bring their own flair to the screen. Simon Schama’s passion for storytelling, Mary Beard’s insightful commentary, and David Olusoga’s engaging presence make this trio a joy to watch. They breathe life into history, making ancient artifacts feel like compelling characters in an epic saga.
Direction and Cinematography:
The visual journey in ‘Civilizations’ is nothing short of breathtaking. From sweeping landscapes to intricate details on ancient artifacts, every frame is a work of art in itself. The direction deftly navigates through centuries of history while keeping you hooked with stunning visuals that transport you across time and space.
Score and Production Design:
Tandis Jenhudson’s musical compositions elevate every scene, tugging at your heartstrings or pumping up your adrenaline as needed. The production design deserves applause for recreating historical settings with meticulous attention to detail, immersing viewers in different eras without missing a beat.
Special Effects and Editing:
While ‘Civilizations’ may not have CGI dragons or explosions, its special effects lie in showcasing the enduring power of human creativity. The editing seamlessly weaves together narratives from diverse cultures, creating a tapestry of art that feels both cohesive and expansive.
Pace and Dialog:
The series strikes a fine balance between informative content and engaging storytelling. The pace keeps you intrigued without overwhelming you with information overload. Dialogues are not just informative but also sprinkled with wit and insights that make even complex historical concepts accessible.
Binge-watching Tips:
– Take breaks between episodes to savor each civilization’s unique story.
– Research further on civilizations that intrigue you for a deeper dive into their art forms.
– Invite friends over for an art-themed watch party to discuss your favorite moments from the series.
So grab your popcorn (or maybe some exotic cultural snacks), settle in front of your screen, and let ‘Civilizations’ take you on an unforgettable journey through time and creativity!
Rating: 9/10
In conclusion:
‘Civilizations’ isn’t just a TV show; it’s a celebration of human ingenuity across continents and centuries. Soak in the beauty, ponder over the complexities, and let yourself be transported through the annals of history painted with colors from around the world.
Remember when watching ‘Civilizations,’ every brushstroke tells a story, every sculpture whispers secrets from bygone eras – so immerse yourself fully in this artistic odyssey!
Lights out…and let the civilizations shine on! ✨
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Global perspective on art history | Unbiblical worldview |
| Visually stunning with diverse locations | Assumption that art, culture, and civilization are the same |
| Well-presented by Simon Schama, Mary Beard, and David Olusoga | Not taking cheap shots at Europe |
| Music composed by Tandis Jenhudson | Does not delve into deeper critiques |
| Highlights achievements and failures of civilizations | May lack in-depth analysis |
Feedback
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Civilizations | PBS
Explore the Works in CivilizationsAbout the Show Civilizations
Civilizations tells the story of art from the dawn of human history to the present day — for the first time on a global scale. Inspired by Civilisation, Kenneth Clark’s acclaimed landmark 1969 series about Western art, this bold series broadens the canvas to reveal the role art and the creative imagination have played across multiple cultures and civilizations, introducing a new generation to works of beauty, ingenuity and illumination created across continents.
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Civilizations (TV Mini Series 2018) - IMDb
Nine-part series telling the story of art from the dawn of human history to the present day, for the first time on a global scale. It is now nearly half a century since Kenneth Clark’s serie… Read allNine-part series telling the story of art from the dawn of human history to the present day, for the first time on a global scale. It is now nearly half a century since Kenneth Clark’s series Civilisation thrilled audiences with its authoritative interpretation of the glories of … Read allNine-part series telling the story of art from the dawn of human history to the present day, for the first time on a global scale. It is now nearly half a century since Kenneth Clark’s series Civilisation thrilled audiences with its authoritative interpretation of the glories of Western art. Inspired by that groundbreaking program, this new series of Civilisations int… Read all
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Civilisations (TV series) - Wikipedia
Civilisations(TV series)
Civilisations Genre Documentary, Art history, History of art Presented by Simon Schama, Mary Beard, David Olusoga Opening theme Tandis Jenhudson Composer Tandis Jenhudson Country of origin United Kingdom Original language English No. of series 1 No. of episodes 9 Production Executive producers Denys Blakeway, Michael Jackson, Mark Bell, Jonty Claypole Producers Melanie Fall, Ian MacMillan Production location Global Running time 60 minutes Production companies BBC, Nutopia Original release Network BBC Two Release 1 March 2018 Civilisationsis a 2018 British art history television documentary series produced by the BBC in association with PBS as a follow-up to the original 1969 landmark series
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Civilizations: Miniseries | Rotten Tomatoes
Miniseries – CivilizationsWhere to WatchCivilizations — Miniseries
Buy Civilizations — Miniseries on Fandango at Home, Prime Video, Apple TV.
My RatingCast & CrewEpisodesMore Like ThisPhotosCivilizations — MiniseriesSeason Info
- Network
- PBS
- Rating
- TV-PG
- Genre
- Documentary
- Original Language
- English
- Release Date
- Apr 17, 2018
⚠️ Explanation (Spoiler)
In the TV show “Civilizations,” viewers are taken on a captivating journey through the history of art from the dawn of human civilization to the modern era. The nine-part series, narrated by actor Liev Schreiber, delves into the power and significance of art across different cultures and time periods, providing a global perspective on artistic expression.
Unlike traditional art documentaries that focus solely on Western art, “Civilizations” expands its scope to encompass art from all corners of the world, offering a more inclusive and diverse portrayal of artistic achievements. By exploring art on a global scale, the series highlights the universal themes and emotions that have transcended geographical boundaries throughout history.
Each episode of “Civilizations” is a visual feast, filmed on six continents to showcase the rich tapestry of artistic traditions and innovations. From the monumental architecture of ancient civilizations to the intricate paintings of the Renaissance and the avant-garde creations of contemporary artists, the series presents a comprehensive overview of human creativity and imagination.
Through the expert commentary of scholars like Simon Schama, Maya Jasanoff, and Mary Beard, “Civilizations” offers insightful perspectives on the cultural, social, and political contexts that have shaped art over millennia. The series not only celebrates the beauty and technical skill of artworks but also delves into the deeper meanings and messages embedded within them.
By tracing the evolution of art across different societies and time periods, “Civilizations” invites viewers to contemplate the role of art in reflecting and shaping human experiences, beliefs, and values. It underscores the enduring impact of art as a medium of expression, communication, and cultural exchange that transcends linguistic barriers and connects people across generations.
As viewers immerse themselves in the diverse and vibrant world of art presented in “Civilizations,” they gain a newfound appreciation for the universal language of creativity that has united humanity throughout history. The series serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, provoke thought, and foster a deeper understanding of the complexities of the human experience.
👪 Parents Guide & Age Rating
TV-14
Age Rating: Civilizations TV Show is suitable for viewers of all ages.
Parental Guide: – Sex & Nudity: The TV show contains no sexual content or nudity. – Violence & Gore: There are no violent or gory scenes depicted in the series. – Profanity: The show is free from any profane language. – Alcohol/Drugs/Smoking: There are no references to alcohol, drugs, or smoking in the series. – Frightening/Intense Scenes: The show does not include any frightening or intense scenes that could be unsuitable for children.
Overall, Civilizations TV Show is a family-friendly documentary series that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages.
📺 Streaming and where to watch
| streaming service | extra information |
|---|---|
| Prime Video | Watch Civilizations Season 1 on Prime Video. Survey the history of art, from antiquity to the present, on a global scale. |
| YouTube TV | Watch Civilizations on YouTube TV with a Free Trial. Stream live TV from ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, ESPN & popular cable networks. |
| Fandango at Home | Buy Civilizations — Miniseries on Fandango at Home. Actor Liev Schreiber narrates this nine-part series. |
| JustWatch | Stream Civilisations TV show online on JustWatch. Explore the story of art from the dawn of human history to the present day on a global scale. |
| PBS Passport | Watch all episodes of Civilizations with PBS Passport. Survey the history of art and creative imagination across cultures. |
❝ Quotes and Cult
Technology is not the measure of a great civilization.
When civilization ends, it ends fast.
Study the past if you would define the future
All are architects of Fate, Working in these walls of Time
Let us all for death prepare, or on the last great journey fare
Let me not then die ingloriously and without a struggle, but let me first ...
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.
Baba yetu, yetu uliye Mbinguni yetu, yetu, amina Baba yetu, yetu, uliye Jina lako litukuzwe
Eating far too much food for too much money is the essence of civilization.
Civilization starts when we stop running. When we live together. When we stop sending people away from the world and from each other.
When a civilization acts in opposition to its instincts, it may be under the influence of something, or someone, new.
We’re going out there, we’re taking back what’s ours. Civilization. We will rise again. Only this time we won’t be eating each other.
The thing about civilization is, it keeps you civil. Get rid of one, you can’t count on the other.
It seems the farther we get from civilization, the more of its rules we leave behind. Its traditions. Its inhibitions. The farther west we travel, the more those rules and customs become a burden.
I thought we’d be killing each other by now, like civilized human beings.
Civilization is just the lie we tell ourselves to justify our real purpose. We’re not here to transcend. We’re here to destroy.
Civilisation has always depended on a measure of elective ignorance.
🤖Civilizations Reddit Talks
Civilizations TV Show has garnered attention on Reddit, with discussions ranging from its exploration of human creativity to comparisons with other documentaries and shows.
Episode 1 Review:
The premiere episode has been praised for its exploration of the origins and development of human creativity. Redditors particularly enjoyed the accessible and engaging presentation of complex historical concepts.
Comparisons to Other Shows:
Many Redditors have drawn comparisons between Civilizations and other popular documentaries and shows, such as PBS’s Connections and Netflix’s Ancient Apocalypse. While some appreciate Civilizations’ focus on art history, others prefer the broader scope of Connections or the more speculative approach of Ancient Apocalypse.
Educational Value:
Redditors generally agree that Civilizations is an informative and educational show. They appreciate the depth of research and the clear presentation of historical events. Some viewers have even reported using the show as a supplement to their history studies.
Criticisms:
Some Redditors have expressed concerns about the show’s pacing, finding it to be a bit slow at times. Others have questioned the inclusion of certain topics, such as the role of DMT in ancient civilizations, which they felt were not adequately supported by evidence.
Overall Impressions:
Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus on Reddit is that Civilizations is a well-made and informative show that offers a valuable exploration of human creativity and history. Redditors recommend it to anyone interested in art, history, or the human experience.
Top discussions
- https://www.reddit.com/r/Documentaries/comments/82oqwn/civilisations_series_1_episode_1_2018_bbc_remake/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/televisionsuggestions/comments/1b9sjln/any_suggestions_for_shows_about_medievalancient/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/civ/comments/9nb4zm/admit_it_you_started_watching_this_pbs_show_on/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/AncientCivilizations/comments/17p2aqc/looking_for_oldschool_documentaries_about_ancient/
- https://www.reddit.com/r/MovieSuggestions/comments/17p27fg/oldschool_documentaries_about_ancient/
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I watch PBS Civilization?
You can watch PBS Civilization by purchasing DVDs, on iTunes, or on Amazon.
Who is the presenter of the Civilisations?
Individual episodes of Civilisations are presented by Simon Schama, Mary Beard, and David Olusoga, with music composed by Tandis Jenhudson.
Is it civilization or civilisation?
A civilization (British English: civilisation) is any complex society characterized by the development of the state, social stratification, urbanization, and symbolic systems of communication beyond natural spoken language.
Why did civilizations rise and fall?
Many civilizations have flourished and then failed or fell apart due to reasons such as internal change, external pressure, and environmental collapse.
🔀 Recommended Movie and TV Show
- Civilisations: A nine-part series with episodes presented by Simon Schama, Mary Beard, and David Olusoga, covering the story of art from the dawn of human history.
- The Ascent of Man: A documentary series that explores the history of human civilization.
- Timewatch: A historical documentary series that delves into various events and periods in history.
- A History of Christianity: A documentary series tracing the development of Christianity through history.
- The Great: A comedy-drama series that offers a mix of history and humor, focusing on the life of Catherine the Great.
- Norsemen: A historical comedy series set in the Viking Age, offering a humorous take on ancient civilizations.
- How to Become a Tyrant: A docuseries exploring the lives of infamous rulers throughout history.
- Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan: A historical series focusing on the warring states period in Japanese history.
- The Story of Us with Morgan Freeman: A documentary series that explores different aspects of human history narrated by Morgan Freeman.
- Andrew Marr’s History of the World: A documentary series that provides a comprehensive overview of world history.
Wallpapers & Media
🔥 Audience Trends
