Human Playground

41min

Documentary

Narrated by Idris Elba, this docuseries explores the origins and evolution of play across the globe, from age-old rituals to billion-dollar businesses.

Production Companies

Totem Media

Scenery

Episodes

Cast

Breaking the Pain Barrier

1. Breaking the Pain Barrier

42min

30th Sep 2022

No pain, no gain: A marathon in the desert, bullfighting, a brutal bicycle race and ice swimming push people to the brink, mentally and physically.

An Ancient Ritual

2. An Ancient Ritual

36min

30th Sep 2022

From a ritual war game to a nomadic hunting tradition, tests of bravery, skill and strength are fueled by the needs for food, survival and glory.

Rites of Passage

3. Rites of Passage

42min

30th Sep 2022

Young men in Madagascar grapple with a zebu to enter adulthood as boys elsewhere try to master Kung Fu, sumo wrestling and reindeer racing.

In Pursuit of Perfection

4. In Pursuit of Perfection

43min

30th Sep 2022

A surfer sets out to ride a massive wave. A diver attempts a deadly plunge. A female racer in Palestine and a wheelchair bodybuilder create spectacles.

God's Playground

5. God's Playground

41min

30th Sep 2022

From mountaineering in the face of death to a game for a fruitful harvest, sports are spiritual experiences for those seeking signs from a higher power.

Big Business

6. Big Business

41min

30th Sep 2022

A popular combat sport in Senegal provides a payday for many, while technology gives rise to games that rake in millions for players and gamblers alike.

First air date

30th Sep 2022

Last air date

30th Sep 2022

Status

Returning Series

Type

Documentary

Original language

en

Networks