Universe

Update: This is pretty much the exact same show as PBS' NOVA Universe Revealed, they re-use the same graphics, locations, and storylines. I guess because PBS and BBC have a relationship, they both made the same show but with different hosts???

Given all of the solid folks out there making physics documentaries, he's probably the best host out there...although I learn more from watching prof jim al-khalili or matt o'dowd (pbs spacetime). Brian Cox's work is just far more entertaining than anyone else I watch. This review is only based on the first episode (will update if it changes)...and unfortunately, this is not his best work. It's really short on science. It seems more about having him make feel good statements about why the universe is so wonderful. It felt like they had nothing new to say, so they just filled the show with drivel.

First, I thank Professor Brian Cox for this wonderful series. He explains difficult scientific subjects in such a poetic and simple way the almost everyone understands him. I love the way he blends philosophy into his series, mixed with astonishing views, making the series vibrant, interesting and thought provoking. The pauses are like intervals of silence in Yoga meditation, allowing the person to think about, ponder over the material presented and to let the material sink in.

I really do not understand the imbecile whining uttered by some reviewers. The material must have become "dumbed down" to let everyone enjoy and understand the series. Otherwise, It would be a stilted, dull, boring series.

Not sure why this is getting alot of negative reviews. People saying its "dumbed down" I think Brian himself would tell you these shows are not for people who already have advanced knowledge in planetary science or astrophysics. These programs are designed to entice the younger generation or to inspire adults who don't have a huge understanding of the universe. Everybody has to start from somwhere.

The CGI is beautifully done and the music fits very well. I for one have alot to thank Brian and the BBC for in terms of my knowledge of the universe. These programs have grown my knowledge and interest of the universe exponentially.

Brian Cox is the BEST!

As someone interested in astronomy and philosophy but definitely an amateur, I always enjoy Brian Cox's documentaries for their accessibility, quality and story telling. I found the series extremely informative and engaging. I personally enjoyed the CGI and music - Although it did feel quite indulgent, what could be more worthy of dramatisation than stars, galaxies, black holes and the origins of the universe itself? It feels important to make these concepts tangible and momentous, as they are. The use of Hubble's images through out is totally awe inspiring. Although I'm an environmentalist and I don't necessarily agree with how many locations were used, I thoroughly enjoyed the use of incredible footage from Earth drawing links with the patterns of nature in the cosmos. I would highly recommend for anyone curious about our place in the universe.

I suppose you can't please everyone. There's always going to be people who whinge and complain about things. I was very surprised though to read the reviews of Professor Brian Cox's new BBC series Universe. They were either moaning about the music, or criticising the presentation style. I would like to completely disagree with all the moaners and say I absolutely loved this series. It was stunning to look at, beautifully scored and superbly presented. I understood about 1% of it, but that's ok. It fired my curiosity to hit up Wikipedia and find out more. I take my hat off to all the brave and intrepid scientists and explorers who have boldly gone where I absolutely never will.

Well done again BBC for another fantastic documentary series.