Survive the Tribe

Survive the Tribe is a captivating documentary series brought to us by the critically acclaimed National Geographic. This riveting exploration into the heart of some of the world's most primitive tribes premiered in 2014, offering an insightful, challenging, and occasionally heart-stopping look at the traditions and survival strategies employed by tribal communities across the globe.

The series is helmed by adventurer and survivalist Hazen Audel, who embarks on these dangerous yet enlightening journeys with the ultimate goal of achieving a profound understanding of different cultures and their survival methods. With deeply ingrained respect and curiosity for the tribal societies, Audel challenges himself, not just to survive, but to master the skills honed by these communities over centuries, proving invaluable to their existence and adaptation.

The alphanumeric roll of tribes Audel encounters is wildly diverse, showcasing how human survival varies greatly from one corner of our planet to the other. These tribes engage in a range of activities, from hunting to migration, warfare, and crafting, all rooted in ancient traditions that have been meticulously passed down through generations. Through Audel, viewers receive an immersive in-depth view of these civilizations, highlighting just how interconnected humans are with our natural world, no matter the geographical disparity.

As well as teaching viewers about these hand-to-mouth cultures, off-the-grid living, survival skills, and strategies against harsh environments, Survive the Tribe tests the norms of what we might perceive as extreme or hair-raising. Each episode sees Audel, an experienced biologist prepared to face daunting environments, fully immerse himself in the lives of the tribes, adopting their clothing, diets, and shelter. The educational and introspective emphasis of the series is strengthened as Audel willingly participates in physically and mentally taxing rituals - from using ancient hunting techniques, enduring the frigid Arctic cold, or trekking miles across scorching deserts, just to name a few.

The series also offers an invaluable and perhaps disconcerting contrast between the challenges faced by tribal folks as part of their daily lives and the comforts that most of us in the ‘civilized’ world take for granted. There is an underlining theme of respect for the natural world and understanding ways of coexistence with the earth, which may seem alien to viewers hailing from urban dwellings. It prompts us to question our own ability to survive in such harsh conditions and to admire the resilience and knowledge of these tribes.

For all the arduous immersion into tribal life, Survive the Tribe does not forget to infuse humor and warmth into its storytelling. There are lighter moments, particularly in Audel's interactions with the tribes. It balances intense, often brutal truths about survival with an innate sense of humor and humanity. Despite the language differences, smiles and laughter transcend communication barriers, showcasing an underlying universal language of understanding and empathy.

In terms of its production value, Survive the Tribe is top-notch. National Geographic offers stunning, captivating cinematography that not only highlights the beauty of the lands occupied by these tribes but also the harsh realities they deal with every day. From panoramic shots of the gorgeous landscapes of Mongolia, the icy expanse of the Arctic, to the dense forests of Africa, the series portrays the earth as both a nurturing provider and an unrelenting testing ground for its dwellers.

Moreover, the series does not shy away from exhibiting the gore and blood that are often part of the tribal survival strategies, albeit infrequently. The tribes' connection to their environment, their dependence on hunting, and indigenous food gathering techniques are shown without a filter, prompting a deeper appreciation for the balance of life and a necessary understanding of the circle of life.

Survive the Tribe is a visually stunning, emotionally engaging, and intellectually stimulating television series that challenges stereotypes about tribes and tribal life. With each heart-pounding episode, Hazen Audel showcases bravery, grit, respect, and displays a genuine admiration for these tribal cultures. The series emphasizes the importance of embracing our human roots, recognizing the power and beauty of the natural world around us. Whether you're an avid documentary fan, an adventure junkie, or simply curious about cultures across the world, Survive the Tribe will take you on an unforgettable journey.