"Survivorman" appears to be unique among outdoor-survival shows. Les Stroud is presented as being truly alone, with no one to assist him. If he makes it to the time limit (currently 10 days), he'll be automatically picked up. But he can't summon help -- and he could very well die.
I normally don't like such things. It smacks of trapeze artists working without a net, pandering to the audience's desire to see someone be killed, live. But people do find themselves in extreme situations not always of their own making. Such programming is potentially helpful -- and it serves to remind us how easy our lives are.
I just saw the Tierra del Fuego episode, arguably the "low point" of the series (emotionally as well as geographically). I hope Stroud was paid a great deal for this particular "adventure", as no one in their right mind would want to spend more than a few minutes in that place.
This is one of a few "reality" programs worth watching.
PS: After submitting this review, I more-carefully read the Wikipedia article. It seems Mr Stroud carries a satellite radio, and can get in touch with his crew at any time. This has /never/ been mentioned in any episode; the audience is left believing he is totally alone. I certainly don't want to see Mr Stroud die -- and he /is/ in rather more danger than he would be if cameramen were present -- but his lying-by-omission obliges me to change my rating from 9 to 7.
I normally don't like such things. It smacks of trapeze artists working without a net, pandering to the audience's desire to see someone be killed, live. But people do find themselves in extreme situations not always of their own making. Such programming is potentially helpful -- and it serves to remind us how easy our lives are.
I just saw the Tierra del Fuego episode, arguably the "low point" of the series (emotionally as well as geographically). I hope Stroud was paid a great deal for this particular "adventure", as no one in their right mind would want to spend more than a few minutes in that place.
This is one of a few "reality" programs worth watching.
PS: After submitting this review, I more-carefully read the Wikipedia article. It seems Mr Stroud carries a satellite radio, and can get in touch with his crew at any time. This has /never/ been mentioned in any episode; the audience is left believing he is totally alone. I certainly don't want to see Mr Stroud die -- and he /is/ in rather more danger than he would be if cameramen were present -- but his lying-by-omission obliges me to change my rating from 9 to 7.