Watch Absurd Planet

Absurd Planet is a lively docuseries that dives into the weird, wonderful, and surprising world of the animal kingdom. Hosted by comedian Jeff Wild, the show takes viewers on a zany journey around the globe to explore the strangest creatures on earth, from the tiniest insects to the biggest mammals.

The show's format is part nature documentary, part absurdist comedy, and part educational experience. Each episode focuses on a different ecosystem, such as forests, oceans, or deserts, and introduces us to some of the bizarre creatures that call it home. From the clumsy grizzly bears of the North American wilderness to the sea-going iguanas of the Galapagos Islands, the animal kingdom provides an endless source of fascinating stories and unexpected behaviors.

One of the standout features of Absurd Planet is the way it presents these stories. Although it's primarily a nature documentary, the show is very self-aware and frequently pokes fun at itself and the genre as a whole. Jeff Wild delivers his lines with a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor, and the show's editors have a lot of fun adding quirky sound effects and animations to illustrate the animals' antics.

However, despite the show's playful tone, it's clear that the team behind Absurd Planet has a deep respect and admiration for their animal subjects. The show approaches each creature with a sense of wonder and curiosity, and takes the time to explain the unique adaptations and survival strategies that make them so unusual. Along the way, viewers will learn a lot about the natural world and the intricate web of relationships that connect all living things.

Another highlight of Absurd Planet is the vibrant cinematography. The show's cameras capture stunning shots of all kinds of creatures in their natural habitats, from the shimmering scales of a school of fish to the fuzzy silhouette of a bat in flight. The series also makes good use of slow-motion and time-lapse photography to highlight the more unusual aspects of animal behavior.

The show's storytelling is also strengthened by the presence of Afi Ekulona, who serves as a kind of science advisor and explainer-in-chief. As a wildlife biologist, Ekulona provides insightful commentary and context for the creatures that we encounter throughout the series. Her wealth of knowledge and engaging manner make her a valuable addition to the show and give viewers a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

One of the key themes that emerges throughout Absurd Planet is the idea of adaptation. The creatures we meet in each episode have all found unique ways to survive and thrive in their often-challenging environments. Some have evolved strange physical features, like the leaf-tailed gecko's incredible camouflaging abilities, while others have developed unusual behaviors, such as the blue-footed booby's elaborate mating dance. Through these stories, the show demonstrates the incredible resilience and creativity of life on earth.

Overall, Absurd Planet is a delightful and informative show that will appeal to viewers of all ages. Whether you're a nature lover looking for a fresh take on classic wildlife documentaries or someone who just enjoys a good laugh, this series has something for everyone. With its combination of stunning visuals, witty humor, and fascinating animal stories, Absurd Planet is a must-watch for anyone who's curious about the natural world.

Absurd Planet is a series that ran for 1 seasons (12 episodes) between April 22, 2020 and on Netflix