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In mind-blowing IMAX detail, unravel the enshrouded human time capsules that have become the most fascinating mystery of our time Egypt's mummies. Probe ancient tombs to uncover these carefully hidden phenomena, and experience the dramatic adventure of their excavations. Follow top scientists as they embark on a modern-day forensic investigation of the mummies, extracting clues from our past that could have an enormous impact on medical science in our future.
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Most helpful customer reviews
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful
By Jennifer Bogart
TOP 100 REVIEWER
Format:DVD
Mummies have long been the subject of eerie fascination. These leathery, preserved bodies have fueled the imagination of novelists, filmmakers, and research scientists alike. Originally filmed in large format for IMAX theaters, Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs, which is one part recreational docudrama and another part high-tech science, takes a new approach to a general, introductory level overview of Egyptian spiritual beliefs and mummification practices.
Created with the young or general interest viewer in mind, this 39-minute documentary covers territory familiar to most with a passing acquaintance with Egypt. The general techniques and reasons for mummification are touched upon without becoming overly technical. But the unique areas are found in the film delving into modern research revolving around the creation of 'fresh' mummies and the search for DNA in both these and ancient specimens in a search for genetically encoded malarial clues.
With three young children, we're devotees of the docudrama approach wherein historical events are reenacted with narration describing the historical detail. With an approximately 50/50 split between scenes of reenactment and more typical technical documentary scenes, the most memorable for our family is the discovery of the tomb of Rameses III and 40 other royal mummies in the 1880s. The details are unforgettable when given life by the actors.
Be aware that scenes of actual, unwrapped mummies are included frequently throughout the documentary. This can prove to be either the most appealing or horrific aspect of this title depending upon the sensitivity levels of your children (or yourself!). I wasn't sure how our children would react, but the lack of scary music or reference to manufactured 'curse of the mummy' speculation helped them take everything in stride. The mummies are presented rather matter-of-factly with an appreciation for the discovery of potential knowledge hidden within their genetic structure and a general sense of wonder for the culture that produced them.
In addition to the somewhat brief feature, an additional 22-minute 'making of' segment is included, with a strong emphasis on the challenges of filming for a large format. Educational add-ons such as an interactive multiple choice quiz, fast facts, and a 'Meet the Mummies' section where educational details are provided for a number of famous mummies in an on-screen text format, add to the film's educational appeal for budding Egyptologists. The documentary includes standard scene navigation from an external menu and from within the film, and offers three language tracks ' English, French and Spanish ' all recorded in Dolby Digital 5.1.
Most of my memories from childhood studies of Egypt revolve around factual tidbits about mummies. I believe that they are nearly universally fascinating, and therefore make a great entry point into learning more about Egyptian history. Mummies: Secrets of the Pharoahs will make an appealing addition to any elementary or junior high course of Egyptian study.
Created with the young or general interest viewer in mind, this 39-minute documentary covers territory familiar to most with a passing acquaintance with Egypt. The general techniques and reasons for mummification are touched upon without becoming overly technical. But the unique areas are found in the film delving into modern research revolving around the creation of 'fresh' mummies and the search for DNA in both these and ancient specimens in a search for genetically encoded malarial clues.
With three young children, we're devotees of the docudrama approach wherein historical events are reenacted with narration describing the historical detail. With an approximately 50/50 split between scenes of reenactment and more typical technical documentary scenes, the most memorable for our family is the discovery of the tomb of Rameses III and 40 other royal mummies in the 1880s. The details are unforgettable when given life by the actors.
Be aware that scenes of actual, unwrapped mummies are included frequently throughout the documentary. This can prove to be either the most appealing or horrific aspect of this title depending upon the sensitivity levels of your children (or yourself!). I wasn't sure how our children would react, but the lack of scary music or reference to manufactured 'curse of the mummy' speculation helped them take everything in stride. The mummies are presented rather matter-of-factly with an appreciation for the discovery of potential knowledge hidden within their genetic structure and a general sense of wonder for the culture that produced them.
In addition to the somewhat brief feature, an additional 22-minute 'making of' segment is included, with a strong emphasis on the challenges of filming for a large format. Educational add-ons such as an interactive multiple choice quiz, fast facts, and a 'Meet the Mummies' section where educational details are provided for a number of famous mummies in an on-screen text format, add to the film's educational appeal for budding Egyptologists. The documentary includes standard scene navigation from an external menu and from within the film, and offers three language tracks ' English, French and Spanish ' all recorded in Dolby Digital 5.1.
Most of my memories from childhood studies of Egypt revolve around factual tidbits about mummies. I believe that they are nearly universally fascinating, and therefore make a great entry point into learning more about Egyptian history. Mummies: Secrets of the Pharoahs will make an appealing addition to any elementary or junior high course of Egyptian study.
Most Helpful Customer Reviews on Amazon.com (beta)
Amazon.com:
3.6 out of 5 stars
39 reviews
38 of 38 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
The Mummies Don't Attack--But The Desert Vistas And Egyptian Sites And Artifacts Look Great
Mar 20 2011
By K. Harris
- Published on Amazon.com
Format:Blu-ray
I recently picked up a couple of the newer IMAX 3D releases, and also had a chance to get an advanced copy of "Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs." Who doesn't love mummies after all? If nothing else, the 3D presentation should make the desert look great! While my experience with these 3D IMAX films has ranged from great (The Ultimate Wave: Tahiti) to not-so-good (Dinosaurs: Giants of Patagonia) to painful (Ultimate G's: Zac's Flying Dream), I wasn't sure what to expect of this film. A melding of science, history and archeology--the film is an interesting introduction to a number of topics. It is, however, definitely geared toward those with a limited knowledge base in these particular subjects.
Narrative: Largely an educational effort, the film combines modern scientists with dramatic recreations. There is a certain cheesy appeal to the actors portraying their historical counterparts, but they service brief snippets of history as opposed to any in-depth story. The film wants to convince us of the scientific and medical advances that studying the mummies can provide, but it's not a particularly compelling argument as presented. The film is most intriguing in its archeological component. I am, by nature, fascinated and fairly well versed on mummies--so nothing was groundbreaking. Geared at the pre-teen to early teen market, however, the film is a nice blend of material.
Features: Not a huge selling point, by any means, a "making of" featurette is provided that is approximately half as long as the original production. With the expansion of the DVD market, we've become pretty savvy about special effects and green screen technology--so there's nothing here that goes beyond rudimentary movie making. There are also a few trailers provided.
3D: OK, I know this is all anyone really cares about--but I'm telling you, if you aren't interested in the topic than the 3D can't really salvage any story. For the most part, this is integrated 3D and very little attempts to slap you in the face or pop out of your screen. If this is a prerequisite, there are better 3D options available. I, personally, thought the film looked lovely with the extra depth. The desert vistas and archeological ruins are captured in vivid detail and as I'm not planning an Egyptian sojourn anytime soon--this was easily my favorite aspect of the film! About 3 1/2 stars or 4 stars for younger audiences. KGHarris, 3/11.
Narrative: Largely an educational effort, the film combines modern scientists with dramatic recreations. There is a certain cheesy appeal to the actors portraying their historical counterparts, but they service brief snippets of history as opposed to any in-depth story. The film wants to convince us of the scientific and medical advances that studying the mummies can provide, but it's not a particularly compelling argument as presented. The film is most intriguing in its archeological component. I am, by nature, fascinated and fairly well versed on mummies--so nothing was groundbreaking. Geared at the pre-teen to early teen market, however, the film is a nice blend of material.
Features: Not a huge selling point, by any means, a "making of" featurette is provided that is approximately half as long as the original production. With the expansion of the DVD market, we've become pretty savvy about special effects and green screen technology--so there's nothing here that goes beyond rudimentary movie making. There are also a few trailers provided.
3D: OK, I know this is all anyone really cares about--but I'm telling you, if you aren't interested in the topic than the 3D can't really salvage any story. For the most part, this is integrated 3D and very little attempts to slap you in the face or pop out of your screen. If this is a prerequisite, there are better 3D options available. I, personally, thought the film looked lovely with the extra depth. The desert vistas and archeological ruins are captured in vivid detail and as I'm not planning an Egyptian sojourn anytime soon--this was easily my favorite aspect of the film! About 3 1/2 stars or 4 stars for younger audiences. KGHarris, 3/11.
38 of 42 people found the following review helpful
3.0 out of 5 stars
3D Review by a 3D Connoisseur
Feb 12 2011
By Keith Niemeyer
- Published on Amazon.com
Format:Blu-ray
My ratings are based mainly on the QUALITY OF THE 3D, not the video content.
Not counting floating text, there are 7 out of screen effects. The first at about 5:30 minutes, a graphic that floats out an impressive 50% of the way, from the screen to the viewer. At about 10:00 the top view of a priest said to be chanting a spell is OOS from the waist up for 15 seconds at 10%. Four times, windows float at about 20% while continuing to tell the story inside them, lasting 30 to 60 seconds each. The remaining OOS is of mummy toes; they extend 15% for 6 seconds.
No real complaints about the in screen 3D. Most of the footage is clear and excess parallax only showed itself a few times.
*** Nice views of Egyptian sites, tombs and mummies ***
*** My 3D rating is lowered due to lack of more 3D wow effects ***
MY 3D RATING = GOOD (poor, fair, good, very good, excellent)
Note: As far as the percentages go, everyone's eyes are different. What I see at 25% you may see at 15% or 35%. To fully realize how far something is out of the screen for you, pause on an effect and direct a partner with an extended finger to the tip of what you are seeing. You may be surprised.
Click on `See all my reviews' for the lowdown on other 3Ds
Not counting floating text, there are 7 out of screen effects. The first at about 5:30 minutes, a graphic that floats out an impressive 50% of the way, from the screen to the viewer. At about 10:00 the top view of a priest said to be chanting a spell is OOS from the waist up for 15 seconds at 10%. Four times, windows float at about 20% while continuing to tell the story inside them, lasting 30 to 60 seconds each. The remaining OOS is of mummy toes; they extend 15% for 6 seconds.
No real complaints about the in screen 3D. Most of the footage is clear and excess parallax only showed itself a few times.
*** Nice views of Egyptian sites, tombs and mummies ***
*** My 3D rating is lowered due to lack of more 3D wow effects ***
MY 3D RATING = GOOD (poor, fair, good, very good, excellent)
Note: As far as the percentages go, everyone's eyes are different. What I see at 25% you may see at 15% or 35%. To fully realize how far something is out of the screen for you, pause on an effect and direct a partner with an extended finger to the tip of what you are seeing. You may be surprised.
Click on `See all my reviews' for the lowdown on other 3Ds
11 of 11 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
Fun for budding Egyptologists
Jan 14 2010
By Jennifer Bogart
- Published on Amazon.com
Format:DVD
Mummies have long been the subject of eerie fascination. These leathery, preserved bodies have fueled the imagination of novelists, filmmakers, and research scientists alike. Originally filmed in large format for IMAX theaters, Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs, which is one part recreational docudrama and another part high-tech science, takes a new approach to a general, introductory level overview of Egyptian spiritual beliefs and mummification practices.
Created with the young or general interest viewer in mind, this 39-minute documentary covers territory familiar to most with a passing acquaintance with Egypt. The general techniques and reasons for mummification are touched upon without becoming overly technical. But the unique areas are found in the film delving into modern research revolving around the creation of `fresh' mummies and the search for DNA in both these and ancient specimens in a search for genetically encoded malarial clues.
With three young children, we're devotees of the docudrama approach wherein historical events are reenacted with narration describing the historical detail. With an approximately 50/50 split between scenes of reenactment and more typical technical documentary scenes, the most memorable for our family is the discovery of the tomb of Rameses III and 40 other royal mummies in the 1880s. The details are unforgettable when given life by the actors.
Be aware that scenes of actual, unwrapped mummies are included frequently throughout the documentary. This can prove to be either the most appealing or horrific aspect of this title depending upon the sensitivity levels of your children (or yourself!). I wasn't sure how our children would react, but the lack of scary music or reference to manufactured "curse of the mummy" speculation helped them take everything in stride. The mummies are presented rather matter-of-factly with an appreciation for the discovery of potential knowledge hidden within their genetic structure and a general sense of wonder for the culture that produced them.
In addition to the somewhat brief feature, an additional 22-minute "making of" segment is included, with a strong emphasis on the challenges of filming for a large format. Educational add-ons such as an interactive multiple choice quiz, fast facts, and a "Meet the Mummies" section where educational details are provided for a number of famous mummies in an on-screen text format, add to the film's educational appeal for budding Egyptologists. The documentary includes standard scene navigation from an external menu and from within the film, and offers three language tracks - English, French and Spanish - all recorded in Dolby Digital 5.1.
Most of my memories from childhood studies of Egypt revolve around factual tidbits about mummies. I believe that they are nearly universally fascinating, and therefore make a great entry point into learning more about Egyptian history. Mummies: Secrets of the Pharoahs will make an appealing addition to any elementary or junior high course of Egyptian study.
Created with the young or general interest viewer in mind, this 39-minute documentary covers territory familiar to most with a passing acquaintance with Egypt. The general techniques and reasons for mummification are touched upon without becoming overly technical. But the unique areas are found in the film delving into modern research revolving around the creation of `fresh' mummies and the search for DNA in both these and ancient specimens in a search for genetically encoded malarial clues.
With three young children, we're devotees of the docudrama approach wherein historical events are reenacted with narration describing the historical detail. With an approximately 50/50 split between scenes of reenactment and more typical technical documentary scenes, the most memorable for our family is the discovery of the tomb of Rameses III and 40 other royal mummies in the 1880s. The details are unforgettable when given life by the actors.
Be aware that scenes of actual, unwrapped mummies are included frequently throughout the documentary. This can prove to be either the most appealing or horrific aspect of this title depending upon the sensitivity levels of your children (or yourself!). I wasn't sure how our children would react, but the lack of scary music or reference to manufactured "curse of the mummy" speculation helped them take everything in stride. The mummies are presented rather matter-of-factly with an appreciation for the discovery of potential knowledge hidden within their genetic structure and a general sense of wonder for the culture that produced them.
In addition to the somewhat brief feature, an additional 22-minute "making of" segment is included, with a strong emphasis on the challenges of filming for a large format. Educational add-ons such as an interactive multiple choice quiz, fast facts, and a "Meet the Mummies" section where educational details are provided for a number of famous mummies in an on-screen text format, add to the film's educational appeal for budding Egyptologists. The documentary includes standard scene navigation from an external menu and from within the film, and offers three language tracks - English, French and Spanish - all recorded in Dolby Digital 5.1.
Most of my memories from childhood studies of Egypt revolve around factual tidbits about mummies. I believe that they are nearly universally fascinating, and therefore make a great entry point into learning more about Egyptian history. Mummies: Secrets of the Pharoahs will make an appealing addition to any elementary or junior high course of Egyptian study.
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3.6 out of 5 stars
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