3 part series by the BBC Documentary Unit for Sky TV
The musical challenges for The Great Rhino Robbery were significant, given the expansive scope and evolving nature of the story. The story starts in museums across Europe, where the thefts of rhino horns on display begins to mount, but as the narrative unfolds, the scale of the criminal activity rapidly expands across multiple countries around the world. This progression required a dynamic and adaptable musical approach to reflect both the global nature of the story and the growing intensity of the investigation.
From a musical perspective, I had to strike a delicate balance. On one hand, the score needed to underscore the rising tension and relentless pursuit of justice as the narrative unfolds across diverse locations (Ireland, Thailand, Vietnam, South Africa) and criminal syndicates. On the other, the music had to evoke the deep emotional connection to the endangered rhinos, whose lives are at the heart of the story. The score was tasked with capturing the majesty of these iconic African mammals while also conveying the profound sense of urgency and danger surrounding their poaching and exploitation.
I worked closely with the edits for all three episodes in coming up with themes: tension-filled, driving motifs to match the investigative elements with more atmospheric, quirky piano motives for the ‘old world’ feel of the European museums where the initial thefts took place and emotionally resonant themes that reflected the vulnerability and beauty of the rhinos. This approach ensures the score not only propels the story forward but also honors the gravity of the conservation efforts and the fragile plight of these remarkable creatures.
The series follows an elite team of investigators and conservationists as they work to track down and apprehend the perpetrators, uncovering a web of corruption, greed, and illegal activity. It also highlights the immense challenges faced by conservationists and law enforcement as they combat the rise in rhino poaching and the devastating effects on the endangered species.
With stunning cinematography and a tense, investigative narrative, The Great Rhino Robbery sheds light on both the environmental and criminal aspects of the rhino horn trade, offering a gripping look at the race to protect one of the world’s most endangered animals. The series has been praised for its compelling storytelling and was nominated for Best Series at the 2024 Wildscreen Panda Awards, which celebrate outstanding work in natural history filmmaking.
Credits:
Produced by: Joanna Boateng, Daniel Hegarty, Anoop Pandhal & Bernadette Ross
Executive Producers: Will Lorimer & Tom Currie
Edited by: Iain Pettifer, Dominic Coke, Dan Glendenning & Martin Thompson
Music by Sheridan Tongue & Adam Speck
Mixed by Dan Jeffries