National Geographic's Arctic Kingdom - Life at the Edge [VHS]

As frigid and windswept as it may be, however, there is no lack of life even in the farthest reaches of the arctic, some of it beautiful, some of it frankly more than a little frightening. A chance encounter with a 1,700-pound polar bear snacking on the carcass of a cute little ring seal might change the way you look at the fluffy white stuffed animal on your bed. To restore your nerves, a quick dip with the narwhal will bring the exotic splendor of the unicorn out of the storybooks and into the shimmering waters of the arctic deep.

This hourlong documentary is followed by a fascinating 25-minute presentation of behind-the-scenes footage as well, so be sure to pack plenty of vitamin-C-rich whale skin (a.k.a. muktuk) for energy! --Bob Michaels