Mysteries of Asia: Jewels in the Jungle

One of three stand-alone titles in the Mysteries of Asia series (the others are The Lost Temples of India and Secrets of the Great Wall; series price: $49.98, also available on DVD for $34.98), Jewels in the Jungle separates the facts from the legends surrounding the ruins at Angkor, Cambodia. Discovered in 1860 by European explorers, the ancient city was nearly engulfed first by the jungle then by reckless fortune hunters, before restoration and research began on the ruins, particularly the nearly 1,000-year-old three story temple of Angkor Wat. Built by a people who were once rulers of Southeast Asia, the temple was the shining jewel in a complex the size of Manhattan. Examining influences from the Indian culture and mythology on the extant architecture, as well as looking at the many surrounding natural and ancient wonders (such as a nearby river, filled with mysterious carvings on the river bottom, that routinely changes its course and flows backwards), this well-done documentary, featuring stunning cinematography, is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (L. Stevens)