The UnXplained

I just found this show online and have watched season one and heading into season 2. To start with, I watch it because Shatner is entertaining and the show entertains me. Beyond that, they're rehashed stories and, more often than not, they've already been solved (Google a few of these 'mysteries' and you'll see). That being said, I enjoy seeing and hearing the story being told by Shatner. He has a voice and way of telling mundane stories that make them enjoyable. Honestly, I think he could keep us entertained doing a show about watching paint dry. He's just that good at it. If you're a fan of his, you'll probably like the show. If you're not, you probably won't.

Judging by 2 different episodes, they approach each "mystery" in a supernatural/conspiratorial way and not in a what actual happened way.

Lost interest after realizing that.

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.

Shows about the unexplained have been a dime-a-dozen. But this incarnation delivers the facts with just enough fluff to make it interesting, without crossing the line into hyperbole and sensationalism. Often the segments feel TOO short and that it moved on TOO quickly. Laudable restraint by the producers/directors.

Even Shatner is restrained. Another reviewer describes his performance as "tired". I find him wonderfully low-key, which is a refreshing departure from the type of hype typical hosts try to inject into topics that, while interesting, aren't really as jaw-dropping as they pretend them to be. "Tired"? I can only wish I'll be as "tired" at 88.

At the end of the day, would I watch more? You bet! Keep 'em coming.