Ancestral Appearances: A Reveal of our Forebears' Physique
The BBC is set to release a groundbreaking documentary series titled "Human", exploring 300,000 years of human history. This five-part production, available on YouTube from September 17, promises an immersive experience as it delves into our past like never before.
Produced in collaboration with BBC Studios Science Unit and US science format "NOVA", the series features hyper-realistic 3D models of four human species: Homo erectus, Homo floresiensis (the "Hobbit"), Neanderthal, and early Homo sapiens.
Paleoanthropologist and series host Ella Al-Shamahi asserts that these models, created by digitally combining hundreds of photos of actors, are the most scientifically accurate to date. The 3D models were anatomically adjusted in consultation with scientific advisors.
One of the most fascinating species featured is Homo floresiensis, an adult human species that stood no taller than a modern kindergarten child. This species lived on the Indonesian island of Flores around 50,000 years ago and used tools.
The series also includes encounters with ice age creatures, such as mammoths, and showcases the 3D models interacting with fossil finds like skull, leg, and hand bones. These interactions were achieved through the use of visual effects.
The "Hobbit" is not the only species the documentary intends to show. The production team also plans to reveal further human species such as Homo naledi and Homo heidelbergensis.
The documentary suggests that modern humans were not alone when they first appeared in Africa. Scientists believe at least six other human species coexisted with modern humans at the same time.
"Human" begins with African origins and continues to migrations to Eurasia and America, offering a comprehensive view of our shared history. This is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding our roots and the diverse species that once walked the earth.
