The People of Paradise

Season

1960

8.5

A six part documentary series following David Attenborough as he visits various South Pacific islands, observing local customs and rituals that are quickly fading.

Episode List

S1 • E1

The Land Divers of Pentecost

The journey starts at the islands of the New Hebrides. In Pentecost, David Attenborough marvels at a diving custom. From a 100ft (30m) tower vantage point platform, male islanders complete death-defying dry land diving stunts.

S1 • E2

The Cargo Cult

In Tanna, David interviews members of the John Frum cargo cult. The group's members take an unusual interest in radio signalling equipment, and they build intricate scarlet gates and crosses throughout the island.

S1 • E3

The Fire Walkers of Fiji

David Attenborough meets the legendary firewalkers of Beqa Island, Fiji, who captivated both himself and his crew.

S1 • E4

The Outer Islands of Fiji

On the volcanic island of Koro, David Attenborough meets a tribal leader who claims to have extraordinary powers over the creatures of the sea, being able to summon sharks and turtles from the depths of the ocean.

S1 • E5

Canoes and Coconut Crabs

Tonga, an island rich in coconut crabs and fruit bats. In the grounds of the Tongan Palace, David Attenborough meets Tu'i Malila, a tortoise from Madagascar presented to the Tongan Royal Family by Captain James Cook in July 1777.

S1 • E6

Royal Tonga

David Attenborough witnesses the Royal Kava Ceremony that he is fortunate enough to attend whilst in Tonga. Few Europeans have ever seen the regal splendour of this ancient and sacred ceremony, where the female sovereign herself takes part

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The People of Paradise

Season

1960

8.5

Episode List

The Land Divers of Pentecost

The Cargo Cult

The Fire Walkers of Fiji

The Outer Islands of Fiji

Canoes and Coconut Crabs

Royal Tonga

Similar Titles

Amazon

Patagonia: Earth's Secret Paradise

Earth's Tropical Islands

Madagascar

Great Barrier Reef with David Attenborough

The People of Paradise

Season

1960

8.5

Episode List

The Land Divers of Pentecost

The Cargo Cult

The Fire Walkers of Fiji

The Outer Islands of Fiji

Canoes and Coconut Crabs

Royal Tonga

Similar Titles

Amazon

Patagonia: Earth's Secret Paradise

Earth's Tropical Islands

Madagascar

Great Barrier Reef with David Attenborough