Life on Earth

I found the first segments particularly fascinating. As the series progresses it's apparent there are large gaps in the narrative; for instance, the dinosaurs are only mentioned briefly. The lifeforms that are discussed in detail are often those for which an analogous form currently exists for observation, which are compared with fossils and other available evidence. In respect of this focus it is a wonderful series.

This engrossing multi-part look into the history of the biological world misses top marks due to a few dud episodes that fall into the nature documentary pit of simply 'animal watching' rather than providing much useful information. Others are fantastic though, and considering its age it's still a great overview of the subject.

Attenborough, through this series and two other (non-nature) ones that he helped produce, defined what this format could be. It is masterfully organized and shot, and some moments are truly amazing. Though a few parts are a bit dated, most notably certiain parts concerning the evolution of dinosaurs, birds, and man, it is still fully engrossing.

The first superb nature documentary series by the incomparable David Attenborough. Although there have no doubt been a great many significant technological improvements since 1979, as well as budget increases, this was the series that established what could be done with this type of television, and it is still one of the best examples of the genre.