The Navigators (Documentary)

 

Picture: C+     Sound: B-     ROM-only Extras: B-     Episodes: B-

 

 

War was not the only thing going on during the Napoleonic Wars, though most of the films, mini-series and documentaries of late have had their focus on them.  In 1801, the French and English were in a race for what we now know as Australia.  That is the story told in The Navigators (2002), a two-part TV special about this great quest.

 

We essentially have Nicolas Baudin representing France with his ship, the Le Geographe, racing against Matthew Flinders’ Investigator.  Both make it, then get more than either of them expected.  Many scholars offer their points of view, making the program even more well rounded.  This program has an advantage over the many Ken Burns/PBS history programs of the better picture fidelity and even better editing that feels European.  It never gets boring.

 

Give the editing credit to Bruce Permezel, who made a difference in this program.  Editors never get the credit they deserve, but his contribution is more obvious than usual, without slighting Toft.  The various voiceovers of the figures of the past are nicely done as well.  I just wish this had gone on longer.

 

The letterboxed 16 X 9 image is a bit soft, but you can tell that the source is not bad, likely digital High Definition video.  Too bad this was not anamorphically enhanced, because the digital graphics and footage are really good.  Writer/director Klaus Toft also did the filming and taping that deservedly won awards.  Those interested in digital work need to see this program just for what was achieved here.  The Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo has very healthy Pro Logic surrounds, assisted by Ricky Edwards appropriate music score.  The only extras here are accessible by a DVD-ROM, and they are extended reference about the race, its exploration, the people, machinery, politics and other elements involved.  It even includes a glossary and is College level.

 

It is thanks to those extras that this DVD feels as well rounded out as it does.  This makes for a fine history DVD beyond anything having to do with Napoleon.  If the racing around in Peter Weir’s Master and Commander (2003) did not impress you, you will find this still impressive.  If you liked that film, you will love this.

 

 

-   Nicholas Sheffo