National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians

 (2012)

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians Blu-ray offers solid video and decent audio in this enjoyable Blu-ray release
Nestled in the heart of America’s Great Plains are the distinct landscapes of a sacred land that beckons the visitor to enter the nation's mysterious and glorious west. A land of soaring pinnacles, deep canyons, hidden caves, national monuments and countless wildlife sanctuaries. It is also the place of the inglorious death of famed gunslinger, Wild Bill Hickok and the most sacred spot for the Lakota Sioux.

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Director: Kenny James

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National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians Blu-ray Review

America the Beautiful.

Reviewed by Martin Liebman, September 21, 2012

The Smoky Mountains have a character all their own.

Mankind has done an awful lot of stupid things throughout his history. Need proof? Crack open any history book, turn on the news, or, for some, just step outside to see him at work. But amidst all of that negativity, he's accomplished quite a bit, whether through trial and error, a stroke of genius, or by simply following common sense. It falls into the latter, primarily, that the National Parks system was created, a means of preserving some of the natural wonders the United States has to offer. The Parks system also recognizes the importance of preservation and appreciation, of keeping the past alive, nature largely untouched, and the most beautiful parts of the land pristine for future generations to enjoy. The Great Smoky Mountains may not have the immediate awe-inspiring impact of The Grand Canyon or the cultural significance of Yellowstone, but it might be the most breathtakingly beautiful region in the entire country. A wooded natural habitat for a diverse species of wildlife, home to native Cherokee, and simply a gorgeous stretch of land, the area is perhaps the most resplendent across the entire national landscape.

The Smoky Mountains.

The Smoky Mountains, nestled along the Eastern edge of Tennessee and the Western boundary of North Carolina, is arguably the most impressive feature of the lengthy Appalachian trail that runs from Maine to Northern Georgia. It encompasses some 500 acres of historically significant and visually appealing woodlands which remain home to native Cherokee and also a prime tourist attraction for hikers, scientists, historians, and nature lovers from around the world. The area was once thought doomed, but has persevered and remained a national treasure since its Congressional authorization naming it a National Park and, more recently, its status as a UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Site. The Park is host to over nine million annual visitors, making it the most visited Park in the United States. It's famously home to hardwood and black bears and is the only National Park situated East of the Mississippi River.

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians may be the jewel of the National Parks series. It's simple yet elegant in its approach, not dissimilar to the other titles in the collection yet somehow more engaging, more inviting and more effortless in its ability to transport viewers to the region. And what a region it is. The film displays breathtaking vistas and intriguing closeups alike. The environment is gorgeous, from the tallest trees to the open plains. The film covers the area's diverse plant life, its climate, the many old structures and cemeteries that dot its landscape, the natural science and human history of the area, the Cherokee people who still call it home, the abundance of wildlife from the black bear to the insects inhabiting the underside of long-undisturbed fallen branches, and much more.

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians is a well-assembeld program that might not feature the high production values and expert camera work of the best nature Documentaries, but it's far better than the average release in terms of content and presentation. The narration is quite good. It's easy, soothing, balanced, and smart but not haughty, offering a good cadence and a fine reading of the script performed with care and attention to detail. The film presents a diverse selection of content and photographs it simply but effectively. The park rangers speak openly and knowledgeably, as does resident and author Randy Johnson. It's a relaxing film, one that opens up a new world of wonder from the comfort of the home. It may not be the finest in Documentary filmmaking, but it will play well in the classroom and should please armchair travelers looking for an interesting, educational, and entertaining trip to one of the United States' most wondrous locales.

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians Blu-ray, Video Quality

 

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians arrives on Blu-ray with an imperfect but largely satisfying high definition transfer. The HD vide source is rather low grade -- it's certainly not up to par with Hollywood productions -- but the video captures a clean, detailed, and colorful image. Details on close-ups of leaves, woods, flowers, and insects range from fine to striking. Colors are generally bright and bold, whether lush natural greens, worn gray and brown woods, or park ranger clothes. There's the occasional soft shot, skies often appear blown out, and heavy blockiness sometimes makes an appearance. This is a very simple, straightforward high definition image. It won't set the world on fire, but it suffices for casual or classroom viewing.

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians Blu-ray, Audio Quality

 

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians features an uninspired but generally effective Dolby Digital 2.0 soundtrack. Narration is clear and clean, focused in the middle-front section of the soundstage, and never lost to any of the surrounding elements. Gentle music plays off to the sides at times, revealing adequate spacing and clarity. Listeners will enjoy a few minor supportive ambient effects, such as rustling leaves, chirping birds, and waterfalls. Clarity isn't the best and the lack of surround channels leaves the listener wanting for more immersion, but the gentle effects are nicely integrated nonetheless and do enhance the overall listening experience. This track won't stretch sound systems to their limits, but it should suffice for casual listening or classroom duty.

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians Blu-ray, Special Features and Extras

 

Mill Creek's Blu-ray release of National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians contains no supplemental features.

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians Blu-ray, Overall Score and Recommendation

 

National Parks Exploration Series - The Great Smoky Mountains: Crown Jewel of the Appalachians isn't a classic "dazzler," but it's a highly informative, well-rounded, strongly narrated, and visually captivating Documentary that should satisfy enthusiasts and novice digital travelers alike. It's packed with good information and breathtaking scenery. The video might not be up to par with the biggest budget Documentary films, but it captures the essence of the area quite nicely. With good audio and a cheap asking price, this is a disc that comes highly recommended for both home consumption and classroom use.