The UnXplained

Actually most of the phenomena, artifacts and mysteries in this series CAN be explained, but it's still good fun to listen to Shatner's faux awe and excitement as he explains them. (Remember, he's the guy who thought it was a good idea to recite the lyrics to "Rocketman" while chain smoking on a variety show.) The episodes are interesting, and the research is good, but there really is nothing astonishing about them.

Give it a look, because you won't regret it.

Please do not pay attention to some of the negative reviews as this series has a lot to offer its viewers. William Shatner may be long in the tooth (age 89) but his delivery is as smooth as a good scotch, and the production value of each short story are always top notch. I especially enjoyed season 2, episode 9, "The Greatest Escapes" which was delivered not as a series of documented facts, but merely speculative on the part of William Shatner which had me (for one viewer) wondering what the real story is, and what actually happened? Shatner discussed the escapes underwater of the Great Harry Houdini, as well as the escape of three convicts who disappeared off of Alcatraz island never to be seen again (which to this day are still unexplained, thus the series title).

If you enjoy real life mysteries, which can lead a family into robust conversations and various opinions, then The UnXplained is a must see.

I give this series a highly rated 8 out 10 IMDB rating.

We've seen about 30 of these same shows before about unexplained phenomena, but many are very cheesy with subpar presentation and production value. History channel manages to create a decently captivating yet cliche show that rises above most unexplained type shows due to excellent production execution. The narration by Shatner is a comforting aspect and is the foundation of the show. The subject matter is interesting enough and elevated by expert photography and well selected atmospheric settings. With 2 episodes so far I want to see what else they focus this season which is something I can't say about 90% of paranormal unexplained shows. It's all about the presentation.

At one level, The UnXplained goes over stock supernatural investigation ground that has been seen many times before (in addition to tapping into X Files nostalgia), but William Shatner's wonderfully dramatic and foreboding introductions and narration make the show very enjoyable. More importantly, while the series includes some commentators who have appeared on Ancient Aliens, it is refreshing to see that The UnXplained also features (very plausible) counter arguments based upon scientific rationales to explain away the ghosts, evil forces, Dyatlov Pass creatures, native American burial ground curse theories, bendy trees, angelic carpenters, or the Knights Templar. And so, in addition to the marvellous presence and tones of the iconic William Shatner, we also have a more balanced approach from the History Channel that does not just uncritically espouse the otherworldly and the arcane. Now that is bordering on an uneXplainable mystery.

Just started watching recently - I like what I've seen so far. More of the same of what's been done before. I'll watch anything with Shatner in it though to be honest.