Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Well-rounded, intriguing docu looks for answers.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
What's the Story?
Hosted by Arthur Kent and narrated by David Ackroyd, HISTORY'S MYSTERIES has produced more than 150 episodes since its 1994 debut, covering topics like the origin of Stonehenge, the fate of the Lost City of Atlantis, the secrets of the Freemasons, and the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Each episode tackles one mystery, with experts from all sides of the debate offering testimony and -- when it's available -- evidence that supports their claims. If they're accessible, photos, video footage, and historical documents are shown and interpreted, with dramatic re-enactments helping to illustrate the events. Sometimes witnesses also chime in with their own first-hand accounts of the events.
Is It Any Good?
Docuseries History's Mysteries explores some of the unsolved legends and myths ingrained in human history that have inspired curiosity and debate through the years. While the series offers viewers plenty to ponder and discuss, the fact that the experts never agree on definitive conclusions to the mysterious topics may confuse and frustrate younger viewers. Plus, the potential for graphic material -- photos of corpses, re-enactments of death, videos of violence, etc. -- rules the show out for little kids.
That said, History's Mysteries does a great job of offering equal time to all sides of each debate, and tween viewers and older will enjoy listening to the experts and weighing the evidence to draw their own conclusions.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the media's role in education. Does this show aim to educate, entertain, or both? Does it succeed? Does mixing entertainment with learning make it more enjoyable -- or effective? What other media sources can be used as learning tools? Should the media be required to provide educational content?
TV Details
- Premiere date : August 8, 1998
- Cast : Arthur Kent , David Ackroyd
- Network : History
- Genre : Educational
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 4, 2022
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