Attenborough's Passion Projects

A Blank on the Map (1x1)

: 07, 2016

First transmitted in 1971, A Blank on the Map is a unique record of a remarkable overland expedition into the heart of unknown territory in Papua New Guinea to make contact with a previously unknown tribe, the Biami. The film follows David as he accompanies the assistant district commissioner and a team of over a hundred men as they battle through previously unexplored jungle the blank on the map. As the expedition spends several weeks mapping the forest, they encounter unusual wildlife such as tree kangaroos, the exotic goura pigeons and an emerald green tree python, but finding its people is the ultimate challenge. In a specially shot introduction, David Attenborough recalls key moments from the journey and the magical encounter with the group of tribal people that eventually takes place, and gives a unique insight into what was to be one of the most adventurous trips of his life.