Galapagos

The history of these beautiful Islands from their creation as uprising lava to their being studied by Darwin to their modern day inhabitants.

Galapagos (2006) is a British three-part nature documentary miniseries produced by the BBC for BBC One. Presented on screen by Tilda Swinton, with Tom Hiddleston and Richard Wollocombe appearing as Charles Darwin in dramatized passages and Stacy Keach voicing the Bishop of Panama, the series follows the remote Galapagos archipelago from its beginnings as lava pushed up out of the Pacific to the present day. Each fifty-minute episode moves through the islands in a steady, chronological arc, showing how volcanic rock gave way to fragile ecosystems and how the wildlife that arrived there was shaped in isolation. Darwin's visit provides the historical thread, linking the landscape to the scientific ideas that grew out of it, while the modern islanders and their relationship with the fragile environment bring the story into the present. The tone is wondrous and contemplative, with a calm, reverent register that rewards patient viewing and sweeping images of volcanic coastlines, sea birds and marine life. Fans of Planet Earth, The Blue Planet and Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey will find the same blend of natural history and scientific curiosity. It suits a family evening or a quiet afternoon of gentle, educational viewing.

• Planet Earthshared nature documentary format, natural history storytelling, and awe at remote island ecosystems
• The Blue Planetshared BBC natural history documentary tradition with science history framing
• Cosmos: A Spacetime Odysseyshared historical science narrative tied to Darwin and evolutionary thought

Release Date

2006-09-29

Episode runtime

50 min

Rating

8.2 / 10 (30)

What is Galapagos about?

A three-part BBC documentary traces the Galapagos Islands from volcanic birth through Darwin's visit to their wildlife today.

What is Galapagos like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of Galapagos as measured, its intensity as mild and its storytelling as easy to follow.

Is Galapagos violent?

No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in Galapagos.

Which shows are like Galapagos?

Shows with a similar feel include Planet Earth, The Blue Planet, and Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey.

How long is Galapagos?

Galapagos: 1 season, 3 episodes.

Is Galapagos still running?

No, Galapagos has ended.

Where can I watch Galapagos?

In United States, Galapagos streams on Britbox Apple TV channel.