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This new BBC commissioned series makes a compelling case against the dumb-it-down trend that has taken over most mainstream science related programming in the last few years.

Jim Al-Khalili, the head of theoretical nuclear physics at the University of Surrey, brings absorbing and accessible views on the development of fundamental physics ideas to the screen for both non-scientists and scientists - my(very non-science) pre-WW2 vintage mum was captivated.

Even if you already have a strong science interest/background, this captivating mini-series offers a different take on many familiar (and not-so familiar)names, their relationships and key events (Einstein, Bhor, Curie, Rutherford) that makes it well worth a viewing. Perfect material to encourage a real interest in youngsters as well as the more cynical "eldsters".

I would have rated this a 9/10, except the sound mixing ruined the show. There are way too many shows today where sound effects make hearing the words difficult, especially with the presenter's accent. The final show was not adequately reviewed, directors should be fired, and the show should be re-released with sound effects subdued.

The predominant view today is that the Cosmic Background Radiation is from the Big Bang, but why isn't it directional - it does not make sense it would come from all directions and be red-shifted. Also, first light from the Big Bang would expand faster than matter and be lost in space, not visible at any wavelength from our galaxy.

A top notch production with the highest scores is brought low by the sound editing/mixing. Who allowed this fine documentary to be released like this???

I would have rather have no background music nor sound effects PERIOD!!! You cannot hear any of the dialogue at times and it ruins this world class production.

This show is really good, makes science interesting and really well explained. Things are broken down into simpler terms, really great, I wish science was like this at school.

BUT the editing is awful. There are many times watching this you can't hear him because music or sound effects have been made far too loud - this let's it down for me, but the content of the show brilliant.