S01E01 Breaking the Pain Barrier
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.
Human Playground
S01E04: In Pursuit of Perfection
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.
Overview
Narrated by Idris Elba, this docuseries explores the origins and evolution of play across the globe, from age-old rituals to billion-dollar businesses.
Episodes
S01E02 An Ancient Ritual
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.
S01E03 Rites of Passage
Young men in Madagascar grapple with a zebu to enter adulthood as boys elsewhere try to master Kung Fu, sumo wrestling and reindeer racing.
S01E04 In Pursuit of Perfection
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.
S01E05 God's Playground
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.
S01E06 Big Business
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.
Cast
Idris Elba
Host
