Watch Seriously Amazing Objects

Seriously Amazing Objects is a unique television show that premiered on Smithsonian Channel in 2013. The series presents an inside look at some of the most intriguing artifacts and objects from around the world, exploring their history, significance, and the remarkable stories behind their creation.

Each episode centers around a specific object, ranging from ancient artifacts to modern marvels of technology. Viewers are taken on a journey to uncover the secrets and fascinating details surrounding each of these objects, with expert commentary from historians, curators, and scientists.

The show is hosted by artist and designer Todd McLellan, who brings a level of passion and enthusiasm to the program that is infectious. McLellan’s infectious energy pairs well with the show's subject matter as he dives in and explores the inner workings of each object that is featured on each show.

One episode follows the story of an ancient Greek shipwreck that revealed a pristine example of a fully intact bronze statue. For the museum that became home to this statue, the find represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study and showcase a work of art that is over two thousand years old. With McLellan as guide, the audience is taken beneath the waters of the Aegean Sea, to the site of the wreck itself, where the statue was found.

Another episode focuses on a revolutionary engine that powered a plane called the Avro Arrow. This secret Canadian project took place during the cold war and is credited with pushing the limits of aviation technology in the early 1950s. Many consider this airplane, its engines, and its weaponry to be some of the most advanced designs ever attempted, and the story of their creation is truly remarkable.

The objects featured in the series are diverse and range from an ancient Egyptian mummy to a high-tech pulse jet. Each episode creates intrigue by telling the stories of these incredible objects and the people associated with them.

Notably, the show doesn’t just limit itself to exploring the technology or history of the objects, but also delves into their personal and emotional importance to various individuals. Often, the objects featured on the show represent cultural or personal legacies that individuals are eager to share with the world.

Throughout the series, what becomes obvious is the importance that these objects play in the history of humanity. They serve as a window into past epochs, and often reveal aspects of ourselves that we may have forgotten over time.

The varied scope of each episode is the show's main strength, as it brings together a diverse range of objects and ideas that captivate the audience. While it may sound like a bland documentary series on paper, Seriously Amazing Objects uses unique editing styles and fast-paced narrative techniques to keep the audience hooked.

The production values of the show are stunning. Each artifact is shot with exquisite care, capturing every intricate detail and nuance. For example, using the latest technology, the production team is able to create a 3D replica of the Avro Arrow, giving viewers a truly unique perspective on what each part of the plane looked like.

Overall, Seriously Amazing Objects is an excellent series that manages to combine technical, scientific, and historical details with personal stories. It focuses on some of the most important objects from around the world, presenting them in a way that makes them both accessible and engaging for audiences of all ages. From the underwater discoveries on the coast of Greece to the design of the modern commercial jet engine, Seriously Amazing Objects offers an entertaining and comprehensive look at the legacy of human ingenuity.

Seriously Amazing Objects is a series that ran for 2 seasons (8 episodes) between November 25, 2013 and on Smithsonian Channel