The Misadventures of Romesh Ranganathan 4
Channel: S3
TX Time: 21h00
Genre: Docu-Reality, Travel
Comedian and TV presenter Romesh Ranganathan travels way beyond his comfort zone and the world of complimentary breakfast buffets to some of the most unlikely places on Earth for a holiday.
In the Season 4 premiere, "Uganda": Romesh visits Uganda, where is he hosted by a princess who attempts to expand his knowledge of the stunning country beyond the brutal dictator Idi Amin.
Romesh explores Uganda, its people and culture, its past and its modern complexity, to find out whether Brits should add this this visually stunning, landlocked country the size of the UK to their holiday bucket list.
With his guide, Bugandan princess Alex, Romesh learns about Uganda's history before and after Idi Amin and how Uganda got its name, before sampling traditional rural village life by getting blind drunk on banana gin (of unknown alcohol strength).
Rom is awed by Uganda's natural beauty but is unable to ignore an ugly truth.
Will the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community in Uganda in the wake of the widely supported and recently passed anti-gay laws force him to come to an uncomfortable conclusion about his time in the country?
David Blaine: Do Not Attempt
Channel: National Geographic Channel (DStv 181 / StarSat 220)
TX Time: 18h50
Genre: Documentary Series
Prepare for the ultimate magic adventure.
This six-part series follows world-renowned magician and endurance artist David Blaine exploring the world through the lens of magic, in several inspiring countries, including South Africa.
David takes us on a fascinating cultural exchange and a jaw-dropping journey through extraordinary cultures, where he meets with performers and masters — kindred spirits who inspire and share with him exceptional skills (and secrets) — in Brazil, Southeast Asia, India the Arctic Circle, South Africa and Japan.
David is widely recognised for his epic stunts and illusions.
Through intimate documentary storytelling, this series also reveals a surprising and more personal side to David, which has rarely been seen before.
Traveling through the urban and natural jungles of Brazil to the unforgiving ice of the Arctic Circle, from the spiritual centres of India to the thriving cultural heart of South Africa, David seeks out real feats of magic at the intersection of physical and mental strength performed by extraordinary people.
In each episode, David immerses himself in the cultures, histories and hidden rituals that make these astonishing talents possible.
He learns and attempts … so you don't have to … while shining a light on a side of magic few have ever seen.
The series title provides instructions to viewers for a reason: Do Not Attempt.
From sword swallowing to surviving venomous creature stings, and from feats of athleticism to kissing king cobras, the series uncovers the rituals, preparation and strength that take magic beyond mere illusion.
David Blaine: Do Not Attempt is a celebration of pushing boundaries safely and responsibly, rooted in years of training, preparation and a process of refinement.
Episodes include the following:
Brazil
In Brazil, David seeks inspiration by immersing himself in his hosts' vibrant energy, passion and spontaneity.
The exceptional daredevils, artists, explorers and athletes he encounters unite to help him bring an audacious feat to life that's lingered in his dreams for years.
Southeast Asia
In Southeast Asia, David Blaine explores fascinating relationships with wildlife and how pain endurance can transform fear into magic.
He meets practitioners who appear impenetrable by sharp objects and performers who can endure the stings of venomous creatures.
David unpacks how people exploit fear in order to create wonder.
India
Growing up, David was fascinated by images from India of extraordinary physical feats.
This evolved into a life-long obsession with real acts that are so extreme they look like magic.
Using secrets passed down over hundreds of years, people still perform these acts today.
In India, David unearths these modern practitioners to explore how belief and performance intersect to make magic.
Arctic Circle
In the stunning frozen landscape of the Arctic Circle, David explores humanity's curiously extreme ability to endure freezing temperatures.
He meets and learns from people who reach beyond their limits to transform barriers into new frontiers and embody a sense of resilience, perseverance and grit that is unique to the region.
South Africa
David embarks on an epic adventure in South Africa, uncovering the magic of its diverse cultures and wildlife that is reshaping perceptions and dismantling barriers in this dynamic country.
Japan
From perfectly punctual bullet trains to meticulously assembled pieces of sushi, Japan is renowned for its craftsmanship, artistry and commitment to excellence in all endeavours.
In Japan, David explores the concept of mastery by meeting with people who spend a lifetime refining a single skill.