Simon Reeve, a master of thoughtful travel documentaries, continues his Scandinavian journey this Sunday on BBC Two. In the second episode of this four-part series, Reeve traverses a landscape of stark contrasts, from the majestic fjords of Norway to the volcanic heart of Iceland.
Iceland, as Reeve discovers, is a land of contradictions. Once dubbed the “Kuwait of Europe” for its abundance of energy resources, it also lives under the constant threat of natural disasters, a precarious balance between fire and ice. The episode explores this duality, examining the extremes that shape Iceland’s identity and the lives of its people.
But the journey isn’t just about breathtaking scenery. As with all of Reeve’s work, this series digs deeper, examining the social and political currents that flow through this vital frontier of Europe. From the ripple effects of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine to the pressures of mass immigration, Reeve reveals a side of Scandinavia beyond its popular image of wealth and happiness.
“Scandinavia with Simon Reeve” airs Sunday, May 25th at 9:00 PM GMT on BBC Two.