Welcome to the extraordinary realm of the world’s most primitive forest. The tropical rainforest on the island of Borneo has existed for an astounding 150 million years, forming a vital part of Earth’s green belt. Within this lush haven, survival depends on remaining hidden, as countless creatures navigate its multi-dimensional depths. Even the plant life here has evolved strategies for capturing prey. Fear reigns supreme in this kingdom, where longevity is a rare commodity.
In this captivating documentary, we embark on a daring journey into the wild side, scaling towering tree trunks as our ancestors did millennia ago. Guided by the enigmatic “man of the forest,” we explore Borneo, the third largest island on Earth. Situated in Southeast Asia, it lies beyond the volatile “ring of fire,” escaping the violent volcanic eruptions that have plagued its neighboring Indonesian islands.
For at least 50,000 years, Borneo has remained steadfast, free from seismic tremors. This stability has fostered the growth and proliferation of colossal trees known as “dipterocarps,” shaping the magnificent tropical rainforest. Until recently, it stood as the world’s second largest rainforest, second only to the Amazon basin.
Within this ancient jungle, environmental conditions have remained remarkably consistent. Steady humidity and high temperatures create an environment of fierce competition, where every leaf vies for the faintest glimmer of sunlight necessary for its vital chemical processes. Rainforests like this one are responsible for a staggering 90% of all photosynthesis on our planet.
The biodiversity of these rainforests is truly staggering. Despite occupying a mere 6% of the Earth’s surface, they harbor an astounding 50% of all animal and plant species. However, Borneo’s jungles are particularly renowned for their astonishing array of orchids, the epitome of floral sophistication, with a profusion of species that dazzles the senses.
