The Secret World of Bats
((Fri. (29), 8-9 p.m., CBS-TV))
Spec does a lot in exploding people's conceptions and popular myths about bats; is never dry or dull; contains some amazing photography; and will truly educate viewers about the fragile, yet dynamic and complex, relationship between nature and man.
"The Secret Life of Bats" could have been a dull, preachy nature special, but lively writing and sincere narration from host Stacy Keach will have viewers discussing what they've just seen and, it is hoped, the viewer will be left with a sense of awe of nature--and that humans too are part of this immense machine.
The astonishing slow-motion night photography illustrates the importance of bats in the pollination of plants and their role in keeping insect populations controlled in myriad ecosystems worldwide.
Even the dreaded vampire bat is shown to be quite shy. Bats won't attack humans unless provoked (true of most animals) and they won't get tangled up in hair (another popular myth).
The writing is clear, and kids will follow along easily.
Camera, G. Dieter Plage; editor, Leslie Parry; sound, Robert Osborne, Trevor Barber; music, Guy Michelmore; scientific advisor, Dr. Merlin Tuttle.
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