Shrines of Yucatan (1945)
*** (out of 4)
One of the better and more interesting entries from MGM's TravelTalks series with James A. Fitzpatrick. This episode takes us to the Yucatan Peninsula where we learn about the Mayans. The Mayans, of course, became quite popular in recent years especially as the "end of times" was supposed to have been predicted by them. That's what makes this short so interesting to watch because when it was made there really wasn't too much known about their people as scientists were just starting to discover some of their beliefs. Needless to say, there's no mention here about any end of times. What we do learn is that they were considered mathematical geniuses while also being looked at as a progressive race. We also learn about a certain sport that they would play as a religious ceremony and there's also a couple grisly stories about what they did to people to see if they were faithful or a goddess. Fans of the series will no question enjoy the Technicolor look at their ruins but I think its history buffs or Mayan buffs who are going to get the most entertainment out of this. There are several stories told but the most interesting thing is just seeing how much wasn't known not too long ago.