In the Footsteps of Marco Polo

11/17/2008 :: 07:45:40 PM
Thirteen/WNET » Watch Entire “In The Footsteps of Marco Polo” Doc Online Says:

[...] from Venice to China and back – and spent two incredible years of their lives filming the trip. Watch full documentary. (airs on Thirteen on Dec. 10, 2008 at 8:00 [...]

11/18/2008 :: 05:01:19 PM
beth Says:

The film is amazing. Not only is it visually stunning and emotionally moving, but its funny as well! It is truely inspiring to see what is possible when we follow our dreams!

11/18/2008 :: 08:17:09 PM
Jeremy Shapiro Says:

Hello Denis,
Just saw the program you and Francis did, In the footsteps of Marco Polo. Very cool and I concur with you that after having traveled to Istanbul on my own journey of food discovery and cooking with the locals there, that Turkey is a very friendly country. But your extreme adventure was really inspiring,I commend both of you and Francis for really inspiring me as just a couch watcher that felt like I would love to do what you both did! While in Turkey I met a documentary film maker Paxton Winters who went by camel along the silk route, Silk Road á la Turka.
Thanks for a journey that not many could muster the courage to endeavor to follow…most of all thanks to Marco Polo for helping you both realize your dream.

Jeremy

11/19/2008 :: 04:41:56 PM
RONNI Says:

This documentary is incredible, it is difficult to imagine 2 young men with more pluck, determination and good fortune. What is most inspiring is they didn’t distribute it commercially, it is available free on PBS and this website! I will see it again for the beauty and the thrill and highly recommend it.

11/21/2008 :: 02:30:53 PM
Ellen Federice Says:

On May the 5 th 2007 , I had the good fortune to view the debut screening of a film with the very same title “In the footsteps of Marco Polo ” , at the Metropolitan Museum of art ! To my Great surprise your Wonderful film is about the very same men ! The focus of the two pieces seems to be very different . The PBS film is beautifully told , funny , sad , full of grit and tension , and I really felt I got to know these two brave , kind souls ! Thanks , I’ll watch it over and over and tell everyone I know to do the same but where and how can I view this other version ? Which seemed to document the work and findings of the Explorers in the field ! It was so rich with Marco Polo History , chock full of information and insight , not found in the PBS film , that it should be the ” Must Film ” for all students ! of history , culture , art and life !

11/21/2008 :: 08:10:57 PM
Andrew G. Says:

Wow , Wow , Wow is all I can say ! I’ve lived my life by the conventional norms of society , but not anymore , life is to short & now that the kids are grown , there are things I need to do before I Die , like in that movie ” The bucket list ” but I was afraid to follow my Dreams until now ! THANKS Denis and Francis

11/21/2008 :: 09:16:01 PM
denis belliveau Says:

Besides the journey itself, our greatest reward so far has been all the wonderful comments like the one posted above. Thank you everyone, we are truly touched and humbled by all your kind words.
To answer Ellen’s question, we will soon post on this website, parts of our original film which premiered at the Met and plan on releasing it in its entirety sometime in the near future. We have decided to call that film, “The Legacy of Marco Polo.”

11/25/2008 :: 09:25:16 PM
S.E. Says:

LOVED THIS PROGRAM! Your documentary was fascinating. The two of you had the invaluable characteristic of all explorers - you’re either incredibly brave & hardy or crazy. The latter probably applies if you don’t survive your adventure.

I’m writing because, at the end of the program, there was a quick glimpse of your art shown. Is there any other place or website where your work can be seen in greater volume and at a more leisurely pace? {I’m not a collector, just an interested viewer.} Was I correct in my sense that I was seeing some influence of Tibet and India in the coloration and figures you were depicting in those paintings?

12/01/2008 :: 10:42:04 PM
Paul Belliveau Says:

Dear Denis & Francis,job well done. Your trip was more than an adventure. You left home,family and friends.You crossed borders,you encountered new cultures,spoke strange languages,met different peoples.And all this has changed you,along with the people you met.There is something sacred about your journey.You discovered the immensity and vastness of God in this world,and this has left you in awe and wonder.Your journey has not ended,continue giving testimony of the one family of humankind. Blessings, Uncle Paul

12/02/2008 :: 01:45:01 PM
William A. Verdone Says:

Hello Francis and Denis!
You boys have not only opened a window enlightening us more to our understanding of Marco Polo and his adventures, but you allowed us to go with you to retrace them! And what a trip it was! …the people, the scenery, the cultures, the customs! What I admire most, then, is the determination to bring to closure this vision you both shared from inception, simply — following in Marco Polo’s footsteps. But it became more than that. It’s an adventure story from his point of view back then, to be sure, but transported to the realities you had to endure in our modern and uncertain times, as well. Ironic, that he and you got the adventure story of a lifetime — and no matter what the dangers were, then and now, you all lived to tell the tale and document the adventure! And that, Francis and Denis, is more than inspiring! It’s monumental!

12/07/2008 :: 01:59:29 PM
B. Sengstacken Says:

That was terrific! I just watched the program on thirteen.org, and I will see it again when it is broadcast this week. I cannot believe the pluck and determination exhibited as they persevered through this arduous journey. These guys were totally unstoppable! It is inspiring to learn of such fortitude. Also, I really enjoyed the insight into the remote foreign cultures.
I look forward to seeing the “Legacy” movie. Thank you for doing this. We are glad you succeeded.

12/11/2008 :: 12:34:06 AM
F. Thompson Says:

OMG! i just watched it three times in a row! so inspiring! i am a photographer and i’ve been dying to make a similar journey. you’ve open my eyes and heart. really amazing!! CONGRATS to the both of you!

12/12/2008 :: 08:52:18 AM
Just two guys from Queens… in Tajikistan « WastingTimeWithMikeAndAri Says:

[...] Watch the entire show.  Now. [...]

12/16/2008 :: 01:32:20 AM
C. Seebald Says:

Great documentary, a testament to the peoples and cultures on the silk road. Foriegners traveling and discovering the world. But why 14 years to bring the film to the public? Is this journey more akin to a Great Game visitation of the 18th and 19th century? I saw extraordinary men with sponsorship from Sikorsky with a good cover. Recommend The Great Game and Foriegn Devils on the Silk Road by Peter Hopkirk.

12/16/2008 :: 11:30:41 PM
H.Clebsch Says:

Just saw your show. It was touching and inspiring. One of the most raw honest sincere pieces of journalism I have seen. Thank you for putting a refreshing perspective on humankind. Great to see something that transcends the confines of the US media. Seeing the names on the doors of the houses in Mongolia gave me goosebumps. Was this shown in 1994??? My sister traveled the world with her husband for two years in the 80’s. What you showed echoed their experience. Nice to see it had not changed that much in 10+ years. All the best. You guys rock.

Hans

12/17/2008 :: 10:48:27 PM
J. Martin Says:

I saw the show on PBS last night. Belliveau and O’Donnell are incredibly brave and creative to have made this trek. Thank you so much for bringing your adventure into the public’s eye. The part in Afghanistan was most interesting and scary to me. As a very young person, I traveled abroad for a year in the 1970s, including 2 months in Afghanistan. From the filmmakers’ work, it looks like nothing has changed except that in the 1990s everyone is heavily armed. In my own travels into Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, and India, I always found warm, welcoming people in the most unexpected places. Belliveau and O’Donnell’s documentary brought to light fascinating details about places and people that I’ve never seen before in quite this way. I will watch this again and share it with my friends. Thank you, and let’s hope for peace.

12/19/2008 :: 10:22:46 AM
Brian Says:

The film is amazing. I have been showing it to my 9th grade students after we have just studied a unit on Marco Polo and China. The students and myself have really enjoyed the film. I hope the film inspires them to travel and see the world. They also really love it because the film makers are local NYers like my students.

12/20/2008 :: 03:43:54 PM
pamela cibik Says:

Has anyone taped this show?
Would love to show it and share it with my peers.
Please respond to cibik@sbcglobal.net

12/23/2008 :: 03:10:48 AM
sylvia ross Says:

Just finished watching the Ch. 13 taping. Inspiration to see the world is hardly the word. It is a visceral pull and push to experience all this world can give. Congratulations to you both. What determintion, strength , good common sense, and best of all to end by saying there are more good people in this world than bad. Can’t wait to show this to my 8 year old grandson.
Condolences on your father’s demise while you were gone; he knows what you were doing and applauded you.
What next?

12/27/2008 :: 08:38:43 PM
Carlos Ortiz-Vazquez Says:

Gentlemen, I’d be less than candid if I didn’t tell you I envy you. My hat is off to you both. Dennis, have you painted the skyline of Mongolia, I’d be interested. Success to both in your future endeavors. I’m waiting.

12/28/2008 :: 03:29:04 PM
Cory Says:

Thank you. We’ve shared this with our children, and intend to share many more adventures, direct or by proxy. Thank you for your sharing too.

12/29/2008 :: 12:56:42 PM
A. Sethi Says:

What’s astounding is the amount of footage taken while walking casually around armed militia and religious fighters. How the heck did these two guys capture s-o-o much video of people, armed to the teeth?

I come back to this site often to view a segment or clip. What is it about their journey that’s so mesmerizing to the rest of us? I couldn’t put down their book, and now I can’t stop viewing these clips…

12/31/2008 :: 07:34:42 AM
Beth Says:

I just came across this on public television last night and was so intrigued, I couldn’t take my eyes off the screen. My best friend and I travel pretty extensively internationally and understand how much it takes to have a really good travel partner (especially as women!). I cannot even begin to imagine the bond that they two of you have after that journey. At the end, when you were returning to Venice, I don’t know how you held back the tears. All of the struggles, excitement, apprehensions, awakenings, adventures, and the dream coming to an end… Pretty emotional. I know my limits as a traveler, and I could NEVER have weathered that journey, but hats off to you both. Amazing perseverance and quest for the truth. And at the end, when you said ‘It’s easy to hate someone you’ve never met; travel is the enemy of bigotry.’ So, so true. People are overall good. Great journey, great video, great message!

01/01/2009 :: 10:49:16 PM
Gladys Says:

I just saw your remarkable journey on-line which was so moving and courageous! There is a spirit of perseverance that touches my soul to meet adventurers like yourself - I feel a kindred spirit for you both. Happy New Year and thanks for the wonderful inspiration!

01/05/2009 :: 07:33:01 AM
bruce spivey Says:

Thank you! My family and I watched this over new years day. This is how history should be taught. America, where individuals are permitted and do great things! What you did was great; sharing it, truly a gift! thank you!

01/05/2009 :: 06:17:37 PM
Sandra Salazar Says:

I saw the PBS documentary on your adventure following in Marco Polo’s footsteps and I just wanted to say thank you for reminding me that “you” gotta believe in something and put your all into it. I’m a Science teacher and was feeling frustrated about this year’s bunch of kids who are very low in motivation and effort. Being on winter holiday gave me a lot of time to think, negatively, and was ready to just give up. But after seeing the documentary, I remembered why I became a teacher in the first place. I have a renewed sense of purpose, thanks to your accomplishment. Thank you.

01/11/2009 :: 05:23:48 PM
Jamie Says:

This was the most amazing television I have seen in a long time. Thank you Denis and Francis for taking this trip, documenting it so well, for your bravery and honesty and open hearts and minds. I love this documentary and can’t wait to see and purchase The Legacy. You were definitely meant to complete this journey. I found your travels to be inspirational on so many levels. Please let us know immediately when the new film is ready and how we can see more of Francis’ paintings.

01/12/2009 :: 12:41:56 PM
Nathan Davalos Says:

OMG, I watched this last night, you guys were CRAZY, but that had to be the best documentary on the region ever. It was really great to see some of the stuff that no one really ever gets to like that, absolutely amazing stuff.

01/19/2009 :: 11:25:42 AM
Marco Polo « AP World History Says:

[...] January 19, 2009 by John Murnane http://www.thirteen.org/marcopolo/video/watch-the-full-episode/324/ [...]

01/19/2009 :: 01:33:49 PM
Touring the World in Marco Polo’s Steps - City Room Blog - NYTimes.com Says:

[...] “In the Footsteps of Marco Polo,” a film being shown on public television stations nationwide (and on the Web). There is also a book by the same name, featuring stunning photographs and hilarious anecdotes [...]

01/19/2009 :: 08:43:46 PM
George Blair Says:

This was a truely inspiring documentary- many thanks !!!!!!!!!!!!

01/20/2009 :: 01:09:18 AM
GILMORE Says:

I watched the film and sent myself an email later to remind myself: You owe these guys a drink at some point.

Maybe soup dumplings again at Joe’s Shanghai. (misattributed in the NYT article i think). I love that joint.

01/26/2009 :: 07:48:14 AM
Cathy Piatek Says:

What a tremendous gift to those of us who do not get to travel as much as we’d like! Magnificant! Thank you for researching, planning and making such a wonderful journey! I’m ordering a few copies of the book to share with friends and family and I know everyone will love it as much as I did! Thank you!

01/26/2009 :: 10:51:56 PM
Dent Thompson Says:

Hi Denis and Francis, I recently traveled to Delhi, India for the first time. I was on my own and it was the first time I visited a third world country. Growing up in the USA, I was ready to go home after the first day. As difficult as it was for me to cope, I’m sure I only have a small sense of what you both endured in your two years of travel. I am humbled and amazed at your story. I can only imagine what it was like for Marco Polo. I am so happy I traveled to India and stuck it out. I think society would be much better off if we could all travel in the footsteps of other cultures.

02/01/2009 :: 01:40:53 AM
Steve Foster Says:

We just had the show on t.v. tonight. This was a perfect connective theme for some of the many amazing places that are too easily overlooked as points on a map, even by those who care deeply for their maps. The story of this journey makes the heart both laugh and sigh, and wakes up the traveller’s abiding yearning to return to those places that, however briefly, were “home”.

02/02/2009 :: 08:45:52 PM
Stephen Bineau Says:

Denis and Fran, congratulations to both of you! Mullin told me that this was finally being released and Denis, the first image that came to my mind was of the stern-faced man standing in a square, white doves perched along his arms. I’m sure you get that a lot… The book has been transporting me away each evening for the past week and boy, it’s really extrodinary. I’m glad I was able to find the program online and am enjoying it immensely as well, but wanted to take a moment to say congratulations to you both. And even more than that, thank you. You should be very proud of all you’ve accomplished.

02/04/2009 :: 10:39:37 PM
duinnerfs Says:

Thoroughly enjoyed this true adventure, especially their adventures in the areas beyond Afghanistan

02/05/2009 :: 10:43:41 PM
Kris Balch Says:

Hi Denis & Francis, The Most Excellent Adventure! Wow… I was riveted to the screen, wondering how you can navigate through the cultural differences and mistrust of foreigners. I still can’t believe your fortune and good Karma. We all should have such conviction to chase our dreams. I was in Beijing during 1996. I had the same feelings that you expressed, a need to be home. Thank you so much for sharing your story. It will be with me for a long time.

By the way, if you like a cultural difference, take a look at Burning Man. I have been going there for the last 7 years and find the people; the art and the experience can’t be match anywhere else in the world.

02/06/2009 :: 10:46:47 PM
Gabe Says:

WoW!awsome adventure the first time i watched this
was on opb and just found it again.So whats next?
I hope you both have another adventure soon thanks
for the inspiration guys
Gabe

02/09/2009 :: 03:09:39 PM
smarty jones Says:

I felt so happy after I watched this movie! Thx PBS, Denis, and Francis!

02/25/2009 :: 12:55:14 PM
Cousin Nick Says:

It’s time to discuss “who discovered america?”

I’ll chop the firewood…

great work guys
great work

03/04/2009 :: 06:40:26 PM
Ca Nakea Says:

Just saw this last night on PBS–incredible and inspiring. I zoomed through third-world countries in the 80’s, but what you did was beyond belief. Gutsy, visionary, and wow! Thanks so much for sharing the journey. Am looking forward to checking out the book.

03/15/2009 :: 04:10:40 AM
Tina Ross Says:

It is 4am on March 15, 2009.Just finished watching your awesome travels in this great ‘In the Footsteps of Marco Polo’..I missed the beginning but was glued to the tv as I watched.
As a child, I had seen a documentary of Marco Polo and for some reason was glued to the screen then also. Congratulations to the both of you on a truly amazing film. I was hoping to find either of you on Facebook but no. Again, what an awesome travel!!!

03/15/2009 :: 01:14:31 PM
Ray Lucero Says:

I felt so alive watching your documentary, I felt like I was with you through your journey and could feel and sense the things that you sensed and experienced! I feel like although I will never visit these exotic lands that I have already been there! Utterly amazing, thank you Denis and Fran!

03/26/2009 :: 03:00:05 PM
K Aki Says:

This is a great resource for our world history class. Inspiring, informative, and entertaining as well - what a wonderful documentary and book! I love the message at the end about getting out in the world and meeting people before you judge them. Thank you so much for making this available online!

04/02/2009 :: 02:57:01 PM
Dee83 Says:

This film is so amazing

04/06/2009 :: 05:19:57 PM
Liz Says:

Your my Hero’s!! Your journey has truly affected me!!!.It is so frustrating, as a lone woman traveler- not in her 20’s- there are so many experiences and places that just aren’t open to me,but after watching this, I have re-committed myself to my trip to Laos and beyond,Mongolia has been on my list forever!! hell if you guy’s can follow Marco Polo,I can get off the beaten trail,I’m so sick of being told- you can’t do that or go there, Thank You oh great ones.!!!

04/07/2009 :: 12:34:58 PM
ray brettman Says:

I am agape at these guys, indeed these freaking guys.
God only knows the late night jabbering I have done with friends for adventures never fully realized, or comparitively on a minute scale. And part of the levels of attraction of this stunning beauty is these two guys, as Americans I think we can feel so proud that these two east coast guys were our emissaries in Marco Polo’s footsteps. And they did it. Beyond astounding. I would say brass balls material, and totally likable guys. And the show’s final beautiful message is though obviously every individual is different, the universal truths of common threads connecting all humanity are the same everywhere, I mean, Mothers love their kids with the same passion everywhere, people want to love and be loved, the best stuff like that. Man these guys done good.

04/16/2009 :: 05:59:01 PM
Alice Lee Says:

Awe inspiring. I spent two years as a Peace Corps volunteer in Kyrgyzstan (1999-2001). I was really interested in your trek through Central Asia, but was also drawn into the rest of the program. I noticed some Kyrgyz carpets in the Uigher area of China and recognized “Raxmat” for thank you. I’ve always wanted to visit that region as well as Mongolia. Thanks for giving me a taste.

04/16/2009 :: 06:50:36 PM
Gideon Says:

They came to my school! for their 2 hour interview go to justgoodscience.org!

04/17/2009 :: 12:39:02 AM
Jim Mc Pherson Says:

The film and sparse commentary makes me want more knowledge and awareness of the places they went. One of the best things I have seen.

04/17/2009 :: 03:17:53 AM
Siva Sreeraman Says:

You guys have an amazing adventurous spirit - I loved the movie and the photographs and your journeys have awakened my wanderlust within.

04/17/2009 :: 07:03:06 AM
John H. Says:

I’m definately going to buy this on DVD so that whenever I need the inspiration/motivation to take a difficult path, or do something in life that seems too overwhelming to accomplish; It will be there to watch again. To say that this was an epic adventure is an understatement. These guys pulled off the impossible. They did something that had not been done for 700 years and will likely never be done again by anyone. Religion/Philosophy speaks of the 7 steps to transcendence (long before Maslow) and these guys achieved what I believe to be the highest level attainable by humans (#6 - Self Actualization). They realized their dreams. This once again prooves why public television is the best programming on television and an American institution that we can never loose.

04/18/2009 :: 12:24:04 AM
Sara Bi Says:

Amazing film, I’m going to share this movie with all my friends.

04/22/2009 :: 10:51:26 PM
Tracy Fedonchik Says:

Denis and Francis are an inspiration to modern day explorers and lovers of history and geography of all ages. I am a teacher and have been teaching the Silk Road and Marco Polo to third grade children for over seven years. A colleague of mine, who also teaches Marco Polo, invited me and my class to listen to Denis and Francis recount their adventures and share with us a slide show of the vibrant photos of the trip. Denis and Francis grabbed the attention of the adults and the students in the room immediately as they recounted unique and surprising aspects of the journey. As they reflected on the two year long epic travel, Denis and Francis inspired the children (and adults) to hold fast to their dreams and to believe that one can do anything with will and hard work. The children were enraptured with the tales and freely asked questions of these two awe-inspiring men. Denis and Francis seemed overjoyed to share with these curious children their stories. A highlight of the experience was when the guys revealed an artifact from Kashgar, China (a city my students study in great depth) — a handsomely decorated wooden saddle. After the guys left, the children wanted to watch more of the clips again (thank you, WLIW21 website). I know that these brave and pioneering men left an indelible mark on the children they spoke to this week. I highly recommend watching the clips, buying the DVD and reading the book. Thank you, Denis and Francis. You are amazing. I cannot wait to hear about your next travels!

04/24/2009 :: 12:03:51 AM
Aditya Says:

I just shared this with all my friends. Absolutely loved it. No words!

04/24/2009 :: 04:01:42 AM
Daniele Sullivan Says:

This is by far THE BEST, most inspring, most interesting and most honest film ever made!!
It is so refreshing to see that some people are so determined to follow their dreams and the most inspiring part is that their dream is NOT the American dream of materialism: large house with double garage.
Way to go! You guys are real amazing, and real example for everyone.
They should make this film madatory in every school of America!!
GOOD JOB! THANK YOU SO MUCH!
I happen to have seen that film and think about it every day…

04/26/2009 :: 09:29:34 AM
Al Says:

I saw this shortly before I myself came to live in China, and this documentary truly moved me. My favorite part was the Central Asian segment, just incredibly beautiful land with such a richness of history and culture that rarely and sadly isn’t viewed as such in popular media at the moment. I admire Denis and Francis’ perseverance and sense of adventure, a beautiful doc!

05/01/2009 :: 11:11:41 AM
Lauren Says:

This movie was amazing! It’s a great way to get a taste of the many cultures in the Middle East and Asia. The documentary is informative and interesting.

05/01/2009 :: 11:14:45 AM
Paige Says:

This film was absolutely incredible. The story and journey were both remarkable and admirable, and never ceased to amaze me. Denis and Francis are two truly incredible people, and their film should be seen by everyone; their book should be widely read and appreciated. I am still in awe of the cultural feat they have accomplished. They are the definition of “global citizens.”

05/01/2009 :: 11:16:20 AM
Melissa Says:

I was absolutely awed the first time I viewed the documentary, and was ecstatic to have the privilege of sitting down with Denis and Francis in my high school Global Seminar class this past week. Not only were Denis and Francis’ experiences on their journey fascinating, but their urgence for my classmates and me to achieve our dreams was inspiring. Thank you!

05/01/2009 :: 11:17:39 AM
Alexa Says:

After being stunned by this wonderful movie, I was lucky enouch to have Denis and Francis visit my school. We enjoyed a small setting discussion, and I was struck by how humble and relatable Denis and Francis are. They really are two regular guys with big hearts (and a great sense of humor!) who dared to dream the impossible dream.

05/01/2009 :: 11:27:07 AM
Christina Reidel Says:

Dennis and Francis- your presentation at Bronxville High School on Wednesday was in the words of my students “the best presentation ever!” You truly inspired all my students to learn more about other cultures, the history of Marco Polo and the silk road. Your passion, perseverance and love of history moved each and every student. Thank you for a truly extraordinary experience.

05/04/2009 :: 09:06:15 PM
Dick Davis Says:

And how could a school arrange for a presentation? Could you two lecture and discuss your adventure dress in period costume?

Dick

05/08/2009 :: 09:26:18 PM
Lyla Says:

After watching this incredible documentary and listening to Denis and Francis make a compelling presentation at my school, it truly encouraged me to further my knowledge on marco polo and the silk road. After watching all the macabre scenes in the documentary, I realized for the first time how auspicious me and my peers are. In the near future I plan on donating to organizations which benefit those in need similar to the people in the documentary. Thank you for such a fascinating presentation at my school!

05/10/2009 :: 10:19:06 AM
Liana Says:

Hi you came to my school Dalton your vidios are amazing i wish i was that brave if you want you can email me the anser to this question what enspiered you to do that

05/20/2009 :: 08:25:51 AM
Dave Monk Says:

Francis & Denis,

There’s a rumor going around that you guys actually rented a private jet and did this trip in two weeks . . . any truth to that? Seriously, what you accomplished is truly amazing. I’m glad we got to know each other at the Explorers Club in NYC and I look forward to seeing you both again soon. My heartfelt congratulations on finally seeing your dreams realized!

Dave