Showing posts with label Mummies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Mummies. Show all posts

Friday, November 14, 2014

Buy 3-D Triple Feature: Dinosaurs Alive! / Wild Ocean / Mummies (IMAX)

3-D Triple Feature: Dinosaurs Alive! / Wild Ocean / Mummies
Customer Ratings: 4.5 stars
List Price: $49.98
Sale Price: $49.67
Today's Bonus: 1% Off
Buy Now

This set is a must-own for anyone with a 3D TV. While we do own quite a few non-IMAX 3D movies, we've found that the 3D is most effective when captured by the IMAX experts, so we have gravitated to all of these available and are slowly but surely collecting them all. This set is a tremendous value as these movies can be quite expensive individually if you aren't careful. And considering these movies are only about 45 minutes or so each, any extra value is appreciated.

Contrary to what the previous reviewer said, these movies are not packed in on a single disc. The case is of the extra wide variety and there is a swinging disc tray inside to hold the third disc. Yes, there are three each movie gets its own disc and even includes its own special features, including interesting "making of" featurettes that were shot in HD. And yes, you can also watch these in 2D if for some strange reason you prefer that.

As far as the actual quality of the movies go, it's my opinion that Mummies is the best of the lot, with Wild Ocean taking 2nd place and Dinosaurs Alive trailing a ways behind. Which is mostly to be expected IMAX movies are good because they're fun to look at and typically have great narration. Wild Ocean and Mummies has some beautiful footage, but Dinosaurs relies on a lot of CG that mucks up the experience some.

Overall, highly recommended set of movies. This deserves to be in any 3DTV owner's collection.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

I like the 3D IMAX format, and my daughters enjoy watching documentaries in that format. I will be always aware of this type of documentaries on all who come in Spanish language.

Best Deals for 3-D Triple Feature: Dinosaurs Alive! / Wild Ocean / Mummies (IMAX)

Three disc, three feature movies included in this set. If you like documentals, may be this is for you, but if you expect a little bit more action, just look for another feature. Quality is good, I mean, in terms of 3d. There is also a 2d version included in the same disc. About 3d efects, let me tell you that in certain moments the 3d efect looks just plain or 2d. I watched those discs on a Sony screen with active shutter glasses, sometimes you can see the crosswalk efect, may be is the screen or may be the movie itself, problably if you went to watch them on a 3d Imax screen you would say that look spectacular. In may opinion, let me tell you that I was expecting a little bit more action, because sometimes, it seems that more scientis have to contributed in order to make these films up to the level, in other words, we need more information about everything, a high level of research. In wild ocean feature, there are moments that seems a little bit monotonous (bored), because for a few minutes you can see just the same scene. In the mummies, we need to see more about it, I guess the director has to go a little bit deeper in the story. Finally, I gave three stars, the 3d is still in diapers, I guess we have to wait a little bit in order to watch better shots.

Honest reviews on 3-D Triple Feature: Dinosaurs Alive! / Wild Ocean / Mummies (IMAX)

you can buy the three features in this package for more than a used copy is on this site or get this one and enjoy the three imax shows on one 3d blu ray disc. Each imax show is only 40 minutes anyways so in this case it's not hard for them to do a triple pack. I have all of these shows and they are all good imax presentations. Some people don't like 'wild ocean' because it's about sardines and not the ocean though. Still this is a great package at the used price. The 3d is native , shot that way and that makes a difference too.

Buy Fom Amazon Now

Tuesday, July 22, 2014

Review of IMAX: Mummies - Secrets of the Pharaohs (2007)

IMAX: Mummies - Secrets of the Pharaohs
Customer Ratings: 4 stars
List Price: $24.98
Sale Price: $16.95
Today's Bonus: 32% Off
Buy Now

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.

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

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 `' for the lowdown on other 3Ds

Best Deals for IMAX: Mummies - Secrets of the Pharaohs (2007)

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.

Honest reviews on IMAX: Mummies - Secrets of the Pharaohs (2007)

Originally produced for showing in IMAX theaters, Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs is an amazing documentary about what modern science and archaeology have to tell us about the mystery of mummies exquisitely preserved remains of ancient Egyptian citizens and kings. From the adventures (and hardships!) of excavating tombs, to the modern forensic science used to unlock mummies' secrets, to the extrapolated evidence of ancient Egypt's past and what it means for our understanding today, and even how knowledge gleaned from mummies affects medical science, Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs is utterly enthralling. Bonus features include a "making of" featurette shot in HD, a "Meet the Mummies" educational section, and a quiz. A beautifully filmed experience, Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs is highly recommended for Egyptology DVD shelves and public library collections. English/French/Spanish, widescreen, 39 minutes plus 22 minute "making of" featurette.

Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for IMAX: Mummies - Secrets of the Pharaohs (2007)

When I got all my new 3D stuff I saw this film and I knew I had to have it.

I'm glad I bought it.

I just love anything that has to do with ancient Egypt or mummies.

The 3D is for the most part done extremely well without being overpowering.

The story is interesting and held my attention.

Direction, cinematography, music are all top notch.

And Christoper Lee as the narrator is just icing in the cake.

Does anyone have a more perfect voice?

All in all a fun, educational romp though ancient Egypt.

Not too deep or overwhelming a perfect introduction to the kids and adults alike who are interested in the subject.

Beautiful and done well enough for those of us who are already familiar with Egypt to warrant a purchase.

Highly recommended.

Buy Fom Amazon Now

Wednesday, June 25, 2014

Reviews of IMAX 3D Triple Feature: Galapagos, Into the Deep, Mummies: Secrets

IMAX 3D Triple Feature: Galapagos, Into the Deep, Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs
Customer Ratings: 4.5 stars
Buy Now
This sounds like a three disc set.IT'S NOT!!!!!! This is three movies,each less than 40mins. long on ONE DISC.That should be mentioned in the product discription.If this were three disc's I could accept the price.But to pay over $40 for a single 3-D disc is CRAZY.No single 3-D disk (running time ,less than a feature) is worth $40.Buyer beware.I won't send my copy back as I need to look a little closer at product discription.This purchase taught me that lesson.I hope my review will make you more educated on this purchase.This came to me without a reciept from XCESSBUY through

Amazon.I even had to pay shipping (yuk).

Click Here For Most Helpful Customer Reviews >>

I've only watched two of the features so far (Galapagos and Underwater) but already the disc is a huge success.

As others may have mentioned, this is three half hour documentaries, not three full movies. Considering I've paid even more for a single disc of similar length (IMAX: Space Station (Single Disc Blu-ray 3D / Blu-ray Combo)) I'd call this a much better deal.

The video is much better as well. The images are crisp, well lit and give an amazing feel of depth. The underwater video in particular is crisp and realistic. Rather than the flat 'cut-out' feeling that some 3D videos have, all of the objects here have complex surfaces and depth within the object.

If you want to show off how realistic 3D video can be, this disc is an excellent choice.

Best Deals for IMAX 3D Triple Feature: Galapagos, Into the Deep, Mummies: Secrets

In 2010 3d tv's were new. They needed extra giveaways to interest buyers. the tv's of that generation were far behind the ones of two years later even. I have a 2012 tv which should be good enough for at least 8+ years , even if they improve the tv's each year 0r go to a higher resolution there is not a medium that is that higher resolution anyways. By this time there is increasingly more 3-d product out there. Even some older movies are starting to appear on 3-d blu ray. like 'jaws 3-d" from the early 80's and 'comin at ya' from 1981. it's a good start! but in 2010 there was about ten titles only. samsung sold their tv/ blu ray player package with this 3d blu ray. it was never on sale seperately. And that promo ended in may 2011. So this item is now one year out of print , (in 2012) Only samsung buyers got this disc and by now there are lots of imax 3-d titles out there. there wasn't but a few in 2010. and these titles will probably be released seperately on 3-d tv in the future or maybe not? . But at this time if you want this promo disc you will have to buy it used or unopened used. As it was never a seperate item sold in stores. I got mine from a friend who was tired on this item and still has his samsung 2010 3-d tv. Now you know what this is , it is three 40 minute imax shows, all imax shows are forty minutes; so this is better than most of their seperate blu rays in that regard. One show is from 1995, the other two from the 00's. You won't find this in a store; so if you want these three films then get this. the picture is good on all three items and they are typical Imax nature type shows. As with all promo items they sometimes come into print again and sometimes they never do. It's a risk the collector has to gauge when paying for a promo item. another promo item that is out there that WILL be in print again is 'avatar 3-d' it was only available last year with panasonic plasmas and players. But this is no 'avatar'.

Honest reviews on IMAX 3D Triple Feature: Galapagos, Into the Deep, Mummies: Secrets

3 in 1 as it really meant to be.

I have seen Pharaos before and can guarantee: the size of duration is the same from the cinema. So the questions about the film's length in this Blu-ray (supposed to be shorter then original) are incorrect.

The 3 histories are complete.

Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for IMAX 3D Triple Feature: Galapagos, Into the Deep, Mummies: Secrets

More like a preview, but did not give me the in depth stuff I was looking for. Wanted more info about specific places and life on the islands so later purchased the BBC "Galapagos."

Buy Fom Amazon Now