By Oliver M. Pulumbarit
Nude castaways are challenged to survive in the wilderness,
forced to rely on their wits and a few crucial objects in the Discovery reality
series, “Naked and Afraid.” Two strangers are partnered and evaluated before
and after they embark on their three-week survival journey—there is no cash
prize, but those who survive it are rewarded with “pride and a sense of
accomplishment,” according to the Discovery website.
Sans clothes, the “survivalists” are marooned and tasked
with making the most of a given location. They are accompanied by a camera crew
but are given their own recording devices. Should the pair decide to quit for
whatever reason, they can be taken off the location by the crew.
The episode “Island From Hell” epitomizes the way an
unexpected environment can pinpoint the vulnerabilities of normally strong
individuals. Jonathan Klay is a former Marine and bodyguard, while Alison Teal
is a surfer and frequent traveler. Immediately, Jonathan is almost
incapacitated by the heat, his body getting heavily sunburned just a few hours
after his arrival on a small island.
This makes Alison take over, whipping up a makeshift
minishelter and foraging for food for herself and the reeling, immobilized
Jonathan. Eventually, he is well enough to help out and digs up an area for
potable water. Impatiently, he drinks the unboiled water but later
has to deal with the disastrous and embarrassing consequences!
Alison, while strong-willed, is tested when she experiences
pain brought about by her monthly cycle. The isolation also affects her during
this vulnerable period.
A producer denies that the show is “exploitative” but the
title does get people curious. Certain body parts are blurred accordingly and
the uninhibited castaways sometimes wear pieces of clothing that they discover
at the locale.
As a “survival” series, “Naked and Afraid” adequately shows
the importance of resourcefulness and practical skills, while reiterating that
unexpected factors can just as easily render its subjects inactive or
uncooperative.
Transformations are jarring, as drastic weight loss and a
generally unkempt, desperate appearance marks the end of the survivalists’
grueling adventure. Nevertheless, there are lessons to be learned on teamwork,
planning and practicality.
For a show that takes place in a span of several weeks, only
the most important events are encapsulated in hourlong episodes. It rapidly
shows the changes in the participants’ bodies and behavior, while singling out
the necessary developments.
(“Naked and Afraid” airs Wednesdays, 2 a.m. and 9 a.m.
on Discovery.)
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