The Mummy: Quest for the Lost Scrolls

Since I've not seen any of the theatrical versions of The Mummy or spin-offs, my take on this Kids WB animated series is unclouded by the influence of Brendan Fraser or The Rock. On an Egyptian tomb excavation, 11-year-old Alex, son of archaeologists Evie and Rick O'Connell, discovers a "magical manacle," which becomes a hotly sought property after a rival archaeologist appears on the scene and uses an ancient book to raise bad mummy Imhotep, who needs the manacle to--what else?--take over the world. Fortunately--for the world, but not for Alex--Alex put the manacle on as a lark but now can't get it off--without the Scroll of Thebes, a sort of instruction manual for the magical bracelet. As the mummy chases the family across exotic European landscapes, the show is peppered with plenty of action sequences and loads of quips, while the balance of power shifts back and forth, as befits a series-based kid's show. Sure to be popular, this entertaining bit of cartoon fluff is recommended. [Note: DVD extras include a trivia challenge that--if answered correctly--leads to a 21-minute bonus episode; Egyptology text information; and video game trailers.] Aud: P. (J. Williams)