DVD
Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that this documentary series features lots of research surrounding some of history's most famous (and mysterious) fatalities. Subjects have included an American dogfight pilot shot down during WWII, unidentified victims of the Titanic, and those who perished in the Hindenburg disaster. The show uses archive video footage (when it's available) and re-enactments, both of which are graphic in their portrayals of war, disease, and death. This show isn't for young viewers, but parents who watch with tweens and teens will get some history lessons along with them.
Families can talk about how science allows us to look differently at past events. What scientific and research advances have changed the way we look at history? How do experts use disciplines like forensics and carbon dating to analyze age-old mysteries? How will further discoveries affect the future?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Emily Ashby
The documentary series SECRETS OF THE DEAD attempts to answer questions that still surround many well-known deaths throughout history. Scientists and researchers from a wide range of fields take on the seemingly impossible task of gathering stone-cold evidence and using modern technology to put it back under the microscope hundreds to thousands of years later.
The series takes a close look at topics like the true origin of the Shroud of Turin, the spark that ignited the Salem witch hysteria, and the cause of the great fire of Rome. Coupling thorough historical research with modern advances in forensics, physics, and medicine, Secrets of the Dead offers some intriguing new conclusions -- which often lead to even further questions, of course.
For example, in an episode about the bubonic plague (or Black Death) that swept through Europe in the 1300s, researchers try to decipher how a lucky few people survived the highly contagious epidemic. Using DNA samples from the survivors' modern-day descendants, doctors look for a possible source of their immunity to the disease.
Secrets of the Dead sheds new light on mysteries that once seemed an unsolvable part of human history. What's more, it manages to combine its extraordinary educational value with enough pace and drama to keep even skeptical viewers attentive. While the stark violence and scenes of disease and death are integral to the documentary, they also mean this one isn't for little kids' list. But the next time you're surfing for some worthwhile family TV to watch with your tweens or teens, tune into this one -- you'll be amazed at what all of you will learn.
Fans should check out the show's Web site for detailed information about each episode. They may also enjoy Is It Real? and Cold Case.
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ViolenceGraphic historical re-enactments (as well as actual footage, when it's available) include battles, ships sinking, disease-ridden bodies, and skeletal remains. Depending on the subject, guns and other weapons are often prevalent. |
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Social BehaviorThe show takes viewers on educational tours through history, bringing it to life with video footage and re-enactments based on thorough research. |
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