Watch The Last Place on Earth

The Last Place on Earth is a British television program that originally aired in the mid-1980s. It is a historical drama that chronicles the race between two explorers, Robert Falcon Scott and Roald Amundsen, to be the first to reach the South Pole. The show is based on the book of the same name by Roland Huntford and is set during the early part of the 20th century. The program follows the two explorers as they set out on their separate voyages from Europe to Antarctica. Scott leads a British expedition, while Amundsen leads a Norwegian one.

The program highlights the stark differences in the two expeditions. Scott's team is ill-prepared for the conditions they face, and they struggle to adapt to the harsh climate. Amundsen, on the other hand, has researched and prepared extensively for the journey, and his team is well-equipped with the latest technology and supplies.

As the two teams make their way south, they face numerous obstacles, including icy terrain, freezing temperatures, and equipment failures. The program depicts the physical and mental toll that this journey takes on the explorers, who are pushed to their limits in order to succeed in their quest.

Along the way, viewers are introduced to a cast of characters who play important roles in the story. These include Scott's team members, such as the affable Dr. Edward Wilson and the hot-headed Roald Ponting, as well as Amundsen's team members, such as his second-in-command, Olav Bjaaland.

The program also highlights the impact that the expeditions have on the explorers' loved ones back home. Scott's wife and family are featured prominently, and viewers see the worry and concern that they experience as they await news from the expedition.

Ultimately, The Last Place on Earth builds to a nail-biting climax as the two teams approach the South Pole. The program captures the tension of the final push to the finish line, as both teams struggle with the harsh conditions and the competition between them reaches its peak.

Throughout the program, viewers are treated to stunning visuals of the Antarctic landscape. The show was filmed on location in Norway and Canada, and the breathtaking scenery adds to the sense of isolation and danger that the explorers experience.

One of the standout elements of the show is the performances of its lead actors. Martin Shaw gives a nuanced and powerful performance as Robert Falcon Scott, capturing both his determination and his flaws. Bill Nighy is equally impressive as Roald Amundsen, portraying him as a focused and ambitious explorer with a ruthless streak.

Overall, The Last Place on Earth is a gripping and epic historical drama that does justice to the incredible story of the race to the South Pole. With its strong performances and stunning visuals, it is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of exploration or the human spirit of adventure.

The Last Place on Earth is a series that ran for 1 seasons (7 episodes) between and on FilmRise