Secrets Unlocked

Smithsonian Channel’s Secrets Unlocked, which aired in 2019, is a compelling documentary series that unveils the hidden truths, concealed mysteries, and fascinating history of this planet to every history and science enthusiasts. The show is hosted by Adam Mastrelli, a trained archaeologist, science communicator, and actor, famous for his charismatic presentation style which makes even complex concepts receptive. The series unravels the cloaked enigmas from different corners of the world, and throughout many eras of time, dusting off the cobwebs of yesteryears and bringing the seldom discussed historical artifacts into the limelight.

The 41-episodes-long series breaks down a wide range of subjects from the mysteries of the Pyramids and the secrets hiding in Mona Lisa’s smile, to exploring the famous hoaxes and decoding cryptic messages of the past. Each episode often features interviews with renowned historians, scientists, and archaeologists who provide their expert insights in the particular area of exploration, deepening the show's credibility. The highly detailed imagery and sharp cinematography allow the viewers to feel that they are uncovering the secrets themselves.

The series begins by introducing viewers to the emblematic monoliths of Stonehenge; it guides us through the longstanding theories about how these colossal structures came into existence. The studies and meanings attached to Stonehenge and other monuments have evolved with developing science, and even after centuries of archaeological inquiry, they still conceal some enduring secrets. Adam Mastrelli takes viewers on this intriguing journey to dig deeper into the mysteries encrypted within these stones. The series continues to explore a wide range of topics, from the shroud of Turin to King Tut’s dagger, with the host masterfully illuminating the lesser-known facts.

One of the thought-provoking episodes peels layers from the iconic painting of Mona Lisa, questioning the identity of the woman in the portrait. Leonardo Da Vinci’s masterpiece has been at the center of endless debates, owing to her mysterious smile and mesmerizing eyes, even leading to speculation about hidden messages within the painting. The series offers a captivating study of this enigmatic work of art, with extensive analyses provided by art historians and forensic anthropologists who tackle the riddles around it.

In another engaging episode, 'Secrets Unlocked' scrutinizes one of the oldest hoaxes in America - The Cardiff Giant, a ten-foot-tall purported "petrified man" uncovered in 1869 and claimed to be a remarkable paleontological discovery. The exciting chronological narration of this hoodwink and how it finally got unmasked, provides viewers with an enlightening glimpse into the scientific methods used to expose deception and the history of scientific fraud.

Not just limited to terrestrial mysteries, the series also ventures into the cosmic enigma as it deciphers the cryptic Antikythera mechanism discovered in a 2000-year-old shipwreck near Greece. This ancient Greek device is often referred to as the world's oldest known computer and has baffled scientists for years because it seems significantly too advanced for the era from which it comes. The dissection of this artifact unveils the advanced astronomical knowledge of our ancestors and offers viewers a vivid image of the ancient world of science and technology.

The series is incredibly persuasive in its presentation, employing state-of-the-art CGI, 3D graphics, and dramatic recreations alongside detailed commentary to transport viewers back in time and provide them with an immersive experience. It is perfect for amateur sleuths, history buffs, and those curious about the keys to unlock the hidden truths of the past.

The show’s exceptional way of combining historical storytelling with scientific method gives the audience an understanding of how today's science can help refine our interpretations of history, presenting them with a renewed perspective on artifacts and landmarks we've thought we've fully understood. It brings a unique blend of history, science, and mystery, solves the puzzle piece by piece, keeping viewers engaged throughout, and leaves them eagerly awaiting the next episode.

In conclusion, the Smithsonian Channel series 'Secrets Unlocked' is a captivating exploration of the world's most famous and puzzling mysteries and opens viewers' minds to the reality behind the myths, legends, and historical artifacts that have puzzled humanity for generations.