Winner 2000

Walking with Dinosaurs

BBC Discovery Channel TV Asahi Co-production, in association with ProSieben, and France 3

The ultimate dinosaur series, Walking with Dinosaurs introduces viewers to some of the most spectacular creatures the world has ever known. In this genuinely original three-hour co-production, the BBC and The Discovery Channel recreate an ancient planet using state-of-the-art imaging technology. Long extinct species are resurrected by marrying actual live action footage with the latest generation of computer animation, animatronic models and prosthetic devices. Covering 155 million years of prehistory, these spectacular beasts are depicted as living in the wild, just as if they were lions, rhinos or monkeys. Through extraordinary computerized special effects, each species’ unique traits are vividly brought to life, from their body mechanics to the distinctive sounds they utter. Using the latest scientific findings, a panel of experts supervised the look and behavior of these animals, and the complex animation sequences were created by London’s award-winning animation house, Firestone. Shot around the world in pristine locations, the live action backgrounds of New Caledonia, Chile, and Tanzania, double for ancient environments in France, North America and the Antarctic regions. Executive producer John Lynch, along with series producer Tim Haines and producer/director Jasper James, transport viewers back to a time when these diverse and fascinating creatures roamed the earth. One of the most-watched documentaries on cable television, Walking with Dinosaurs is arresting, precedent-setting television that puts flesh and personality into the dry bones of the ancient rulers of the earth, and is therefore highly deserving of a Peabody Award.