Watch Mysteries Of Easter Island

The movie Mysteries of Easter Island from 2002 is a fascinating exploration of one of the world's most mysterious places. The film takes us on a journey through the history, culture, and archaeology of this remote island in the South Pacific. Narrated by actor Fred Applegate, the film features interviews with experts such as Paul Bahn and Colin McFarlane, who provide insight into the mysteries of Easter Island. Bahn is an archaeologist and author who has conducted extensive research on the island, while McFarlane is an anthropologist who has studied the culture of Polynesia.

The film begins by introducing us to the island itself, which is located nearly 2,000 miles off the coast of Chile. The island is famous for its moai, massive statues that were carved from volcanic rock and erected by the island's ancient inhabitants. The film showcases these statues, as well as other impressive archaeological sites such as the ceremonial village of Orongo.

As we journey through Easter Island's history, the film delves into the many theories that have been proposed to explain the island's mysterious past. Some experts believe that the island was settled by Polynesian seafarers around the year 1000 AD, while others believe that there may have been contact with South Americans before European explorers arrived in the region. The film also explores the role of the island's environment in shaping its history, including the impact of deforestation on the island's ecosystem.

One of the most intriguing mysteries of Easter Island is the question of how the islanders were able to transport the massive moai statues from the quarries where they were carved to their final locations. The film shows us various methods that have been proposed, from ropes and sleds to the use of a special lubricant made from plant oils. Experts demonstrate these methods and discuss the various challenges involved in moving such massive objects.

Another mystery of Easter Island is the so-called "birdman cult," which emerged in the 18th century and lasted until the arrival of Christian missionaries. The cult involved a competition to retrieve the first egg laid by a migrating bird each year, with the winner becoming the new "birdman" and gaining great prestige on the island. The film explores the history and significance of this unusual tradition and its connection to Easter Island's unique cultural heritage.

Overall, Mysteries of Easter Island is a thought-provoking and informative documentary that will appeal to anyone with an interest in archaeology, history, or anthropology. The film offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the world's most intriguing and enigmatic locations and provides a wealth of information about the many mysteries that continue to puzzle experts to this day.

Mysteries Of Easter Island is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 46 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.