Rare: Creatures of the Photo Ark

"PBS's Rare: Creatures of the Photo Ark", debuted in 2017, is a fascinating and heart-touching three-part documentary built around the environmental engaging endeavor of the acknowledged National Geographic photographer, Joel Sartore. It's a visual treat that amalgamates the power of photography with an urgent call to protect the world's rich biodiversity. Sprinkled with remarkable storytelling, wit, charm and a dash of humor, the documentary casts light on the daunting reality and implications of the ongoing sixth mass extinction of species.

Underlining the story is Joel's ambitious 25-year project - The Photo Ark. The Photo Ark is his impactful initiative to capture the portraits of the world's rare and at-risk species before they vanish. With his superb dexterity in photography, he intimately frames the unspoken narrative of each creature, thereby inducing connection, empathy and understanding in viewers, inspiring them to advocate for environmental preservation. The film takes viewers on an exotic journey as it trails Joel Sartore's footsteps into the wild, through jungles, reservations, zoos, and rehabilitation centers across the globe.

The first episode establishes the intentions of this project, focusing on species that are either unique to their native regions or are soon to be extinct. In the opening sequence itself, we get to observe Joel's conviction and commitment towards his lifelong project as he ventures into capture the critically endangered Iberian lynx in the unruly terrain of Spain. His journey continues to Budapest and Prague where he captures stunning photos of wildly different creatures, using patience and understanding to bring their portraits to life.

The second episode dives deeper into more daunting stories of species on the brink of extinction. From the dusty plains of Africa to jungles of Amazon, Sartore shines a light on these often-overlooked species' struggle for survival in an ever-changing environment. The audience is able to get a sense of their vital ecological roles and the consequences of losing these species. It’s a compelling call to consider the interconnectedness of living things and humans' tremendous influence over earth's biodiversity.

The final episode is a deciphering journey into what it takes to save a species, accentuating the significance of biodiversity and the need to protect habitats - and focusing particularly on Joel’s mission of making people care and provoking them to help. It pans from the steamy tropical rainforests to the arid landscapes of North America, showcasing the gallant efforts of conservationists working tirelessly to rescue endangered species and attribute them a fighting chance of reprieve.

Joel's mantra through the series is simple, yet profound: "People won’t save what they don't love, and they can't love what they don't understand." This universal message echoes throughout the series, forming the very core of his endeavors, fostering a general sense of the theological, emotional and mystical relationship humans have with all kinds of creatures.

"Rare: Creatures of the Photo Ark" seamlessly blends the elements of science, nature, and humanity. This landmark series is not only visually stunning and emotionally stirring but also powerfully educative, revealing critical perspectives on the pressing environmental challenges of our times. Notably, it underlines the potential power of one person's dedication to making a real, appreciable difference, shining a spotlight on the urgency and possibility of conservation.

At the same time, the series is subtly humorous and refreshingly optimistic, courtesy of Joel's unflinching spirit and the captivating creatures that light up the screen. It strikes a unique balance between the magnificence and plight of the natural world and our shared responsibility to protect it.

In conclusion, "Rare: Creatures of the Photo Ark" is an extraordinary exploration of our planet’s wildlife, filled with mesmerizing imagery and resonant messages, shedding light on the wonders of biodiversity and the urgent need to protect it. The narrative’s strength lies in its simplicity and utmost honesty, shedding light on the critical position of the natural world in our existence and emphasizing the role that each person can play in its protection.

It is an engrossing watch for animal lovers, conservationists, photography enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the richness of life on Earth, the daunting scale of its possible loss, and the compelling fight to save it. It encourages viewers to re-evaluate their role among the myriad of species on Earth and inspires them to take part in preserving our shared home’s rich and varied life.