Reviews

I don't typically go for the horror genre, and don't keep up with movie reviews, but I got off work early today and, feeling daring, went to see Captivity. And.... it was awesome. I'm not saying it changed my life, but it was just what I was looking for. I was worried about all the torture and gore that was supposed to be in it, but it turned out to be much more about psychological tricks than blood and guts. On the whole it's really not that graphic, which I'm sure for some people is a drawback, but I prefer to go easy on the stomach-turning, so it worked out for me. The story is quite simple, but sufficient. It is more of a framework in which a series of emotionally traumatizing challenges can be thrown upon our sweet, blonde heroine. Her co-star is a brooding mystery man, and it's fun to watch them interact in their concrete cell under the streets of New York. Anyone requiring a complicated, two hour saga that requires a lot of concentration and brain power should know that this is one of those "along for the ride" flicks, and if that is simply embraced, it's a pretty good ride.

I saw an episode of this recently and was extremely impressed by the dedication of the team of hosts/scientists/everyday folks with insatiable curiosity. They were testing the theory that the "brace position" that airlines tell you to do in the event of a crash landing actually is designed to kill you (thus being cheaper, not having to pay people's medical bills). I had actually never heard of that myth, and find it pretty dark, but it was interesting to see just how much safer you are depending on what position your body is in, as well as factors like first class, coach, and the flight attendants' seats. They were very scientific about it, while still having a great time testing things out. The results were interesting, but what really got me was when the three mythbusters actually got into the stunt seats and put themselves in the simulated plane crash. They were so driven to find out the truth that they walked away that day with bruises, cuts, and sore necks. That's some serious dedication.

"Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego" was a great way for kids to learn about geography, at the same time planting the seeds of a lifelong interest in understanding and exploring the world. I think I probably played the earliest version of the game when I was about 8 or 9 years old; I'm now in my mid 20s and have spent time on every continent except Antarctica. I can't credit it all to this show, but it certainly made an impact.

It's important for kids to become aware of how big the world is, and that we are living on just a small part of it. I would love to see the show and/or computer game come back.

I watched this when I was a kid, and the fact that I'm writing a review for it now that I'm a grown woman is testimony to it's impact and success as a TV show and educational device.

The stories were captivating to a young audience, and cleverly promoted an interest in learning. It's role in the show Square One was brilliant as well, encouraging kids to keep up with every episode and learn even more. At the end of each program, it was like saving the best part for last.

"The stories are fake but the problems are real." I hope there is something equally engaging and educational when I have my own kids.