Frontline World Season 1 Episode 2 Episode 2

"Frontline/World" Season 1 Episode 2: "Episode 2"

In this captivating episode of "Frontline/World," the viewer is taken on a global journey to explore pressing social, political, and environmental issues from different corners of the world. With its signature investigative journalism style, this thought-provoking episode brings to the forefront a diverse range of stories that shed light on the human experience.

The episode embarks on a compelling exploration of South Africa's turbulent past. Titled "Last of the Bushmen," reporter Mark J. Davis delves into the unique struggle of the San people, also known as Bushmen, to maintain their cultural heritage in the face of encroaching modernization and government policies. Davis takes us deep into the heart of the Kalahari Desert, where we witness the struggles and resilience of these indigenous people, as they navigate a rapidly changing world while trying to preserve their ancient traditions.

Shifting gears, the episode then takes us to Brazil, where reporter Andres Cediel investigates the devastating effects of illegal logging in the Amazon rainforest. In "Forest of the Future," Cediel exposes the dangerous yet lucrative industry that drives deforestation in the world's largest tropical rainforest. Through remarkable access to undercover footage and interviews, this eye-opening segment reveals the intricate web of criminal networks and corrupt practices that continue to pose a grave threat to the environment and indigenous communities.

Bringing us closer to home, the episode turns its lens to the United States, specifically to a small town on the Texas-Mexico border. In "The Ballad of Esequiel Hernandez," reporter Lowell Bergman uncovers the tragic story of a young American citizen who was fatally shot by U.S. Marines while tending his family's goats near the border fence. This haunting investigation raises important questions about border security, racial profiling, and the impact of the war on drugs on ordinary citizens. Through interviews with Hernandez's family and friends, as well as government officials and military personnel, Bergman paints a compelling picture of a community shattered by mistrust and a life senselessly cut short.

Continuing its exploration of pressing issues, the episode then takes us to Cambodia, where reporter Dan Fesperman investigates the plight of women caught in the crossfire of a growing sex trafficking industry. In "The Dancing Boys of Afghanistan," Fesperman exposes the disturbing reality of young boys forced into sexual slavery to cater to the desires of wealthy men. Through interviews with victims, advocates, and perpetrators, this gut-wrenching segment sheds light on the complexities of a trade that preys on vulnerable individuals and the daunting challenges faced by those trying to combat it.

Lastly, the episode concludes with a journey to China, shining a spotlight on the rapid economic development that has transformed the country's landscape and its people's lives. In "Welcome to China," reporter Kevin Sites takes us on an intimate exploration of both the benefits and drawbacks of China's remarkable economic growth. From the bustling streets of Beijing to the rural farming communities, Sites captures the stories of individuals whose lives have been impacted by this unprecedented transformation, raising questions about wealth disparity, pollution, and the government's grip on power.

In this thought-provoking episode, "Frontline/World" Season 1 Episode 2 succeeds in highlighting the universal themes that connect us all as global citizens, while also shedding light on the unique challenges faced by people from different cultures and walks of life. Through its meticulous investigative reporting, the series encourages viewers to reflect on the complexities of our modern world and consider the pressing issues that demand our attention and action.