The Island is about the adventurous life of 14 ordinary American men who are stripped of their modern-day conveniences and lifestyles to survive on a deserted island with only minimal survival tools and the clothes on their backs, forcing them to hunt for food, find their own water, build shelter and a community to survive.

"The Island" is a new show by NBC, featuring Bear Grylls as the host, doing occasional commentary.

Fourteen men are dropped on an isolated island with the intent of surviving thirty days using their wits and abilities. These are not survival specialists. Four of them are cameramen who will document the adventure.

I guess the first question is why are they doing this? There is no million dollar prize at the end. It's not a contest, except in the sense that it's man against nature. From the beginning, it's clear that nature holds all the cards. These men have chosen to test their mettle. What better way to do that than "in the destructive element immerse" (from "Lord Jim" by Joseph Conrad).

Due to posts about other related shows, I wondered how true this show would be. Or would there be numerous interferences from the producers to modify the narrative? After watching the first two episodes--with their medical emergencies and their real depictions of imminent death experiences--it is clear that the viewer is watching a true story unfold. Evacuations are necessary when dangerous health risks occur, but otherwise the men are on their own.

This show is probably not for everyone. The participants undergo tremendous stresses, which cause breakdowns in personalities and the social niceties, revealing basic truths about human nature and the relationship between mind and body.

Duration: 3 Discs HD DVD-9 Plastic Bag Packing Ver. ( 6 Episodes Complete Series )