Ep 4. Heavy Metal

In episode 4 of Life After People: The Series season 1, titled "Heavy Metal," the focus shifts to how humans have created structures to withstand the elements and preserve our way of life. The episode explores what would happen to these structures if humans no longer existed, and how nature would slowly but surely reclaim our world.

The episode starts by examining skyscrapers, monuments, and bridges - the towering structures that define our cities and civilizations. Without humans to maintain them, how long would they last? The show uses CGI and expert opinion to explore how rust, decay, and natural disaster would take their toll on these concrete and steel structures.

Next, the focus turns to a different kind of human creation: technology. From electronics to automobiles, the episode investigates what would happen to our high-tech gadgets if humans disappeared. The answer, it seems, is not pretty - without constant maintenance and upkeep, our machines would break down quickly and become nothing but scrap metal.

As the episode progresses, it shifts its attention to more unexpected objects, such as musical instruments and bicycles. How do these objects decompose and dissolve in the absence of humans? The result is sometimes surprising: while some objects might last longer than expected, others break down much faster than anticipated.

Throughout the episode, the show highlights the resilience of nature and its ability to take back what is rightfully its own. From the slow takeover of abandoned buildings by plants and animals to the way rust consumes metal structures over time, the message is clear: even the most imposing human creations cannot stand up forever against the relentless power of Mother Nature.

To bring this message home, the episode ends with a meditation on one of the most iconic human creations of all: the Statue of Liberty. The camera pans over the corroded remains of Lady Liberty, now nothing but a rusted hulk, and we are reminded once again of the fleeting nature of all human endeavors.

Overall, "Heavy Metal" is a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of how our world might look once humans are no longer around to maintain it. Whether you're interested in science, anthropology, or just enjoy speculating about doomsday scenarios, this episode is sure to offer plenty of food for thought.