Facing

Facing is a notable docuseries by the renowned National Geographic Channel that debuted in 2016. It's a fascinating panorama of stories that dives deep into the avenues and exploits of global icons and influential figures who have shaped the world's history. Across its various episodes, the series marries a unique narrative style with evocative historical footage, gripping accounts, and penetrating interviews from those who've experienced these figures firsthand. It scopes a broad swath that deconvenes reflecting on the lives of formidable figures - everyone from dictators and drug lords to artists and pioneers across various intact- lands and cultures.

Each episode of Facing unfolds like a thrilling chronicle. The series stands out because it refuses to shy away from controversial figures and periods. Marketed with the tagline - "You know the face, do you know the person?", the series aims to unveil the individuals behind the global events. It sheds light on events and people that have stirred global consciousness, bringing forth unheard perspectives and unearthing layers of complexity in a world that often prefers simplified narratives.

The lion's share of fascination lies in the extraordinary storytelling terra incognita. Facing doesn't settle for surface-level overviews. Instead, it goes above and beyond the call of a typical biography series, tying together myriad `strands from multiple sources. This includes insiders who have faced these icons directly. The stories of these individuals - bodyguards, business associates, adversaries, journalists, and even everyday citizens, provide a unique lens to observe these individuals at the peak of their influence.

Pablo Escobar, Saddam Hussein, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Ronald Reagan are among the eclectic mix of figures examined in this series. Each episode dedicated to them offers a vivid insight into their life stories with the underlying factors and interpersonal relationships that shaped who they became.

For instance, the episode about Pablo Escobar doesn't just tightly rehash his infamy as a drug lord. Instead, it ventures to furnish viewers with an understanding of his paradoxical nature - a ruthless criminal who, at the same time, was seen as a Robin Hood figure in Colombian society. Similarly, the episode about Saddam Hussein takes you into the dark corridors of his dictatorship, highlighting the terror he instilled and the extraordinary cult-of-personality he built in Iraq.

However, the series doesn't stand on the polar ends of all these figures; it also offers episodes on Arnold Schwarzenegger and Ronald Reagan, diving into their transition from entertainment into the politically charged realm. In fact, the socio-cultural implications of that journey play a major role in the series.

Facing also manages to avoid the pitfall of heavy-handedness with its storytelling. It maintains a measured, non-judgmental narrative tone, allowing the viewer free reign to formulate their own opinions. The overarching narrative in Facing often uses historical footage and interviews to create a compelling pastiche that veers away from proselytization. Instead, it poses necessary and provocative questions, leading to engaging and thoughtful discussions.

The use of authentic archival footage and intimate interviews make the narrative even more compelling. The historical footage provides a window into notable events and adds dramatic weight to the narration. Meanwhile, the interviews showcase human stories in the face of much larger-than-life figures. This blend ensures that viewers are completely immersed in the subjects of each episode.

Facing makes a significant contribution to the documentary genre, providing unique insights into influential figures and events. It's the kind of programming that resonates with history buffs, political enthusiasts, or anyone with a curiosity about the world and its making. The combination of unexpected subjects, absorbing narratives, and a keen eye for historical detail makes Facing a must-watch offering from National Geographic Channel. It's a thoughtful exploration of the stories that need to be told, those that are often left out of mainstream conversation. In the end, Facing is a mirror that reflects the human experience, inviting its viewers to venture beyond the known visage and discover the depths and intricacies of these monumental figures.