Stream It Or Skip It: ‘Unknown: The Lost Pyramid’ On Netflix

“Unknown: The Lost Pyramid” is a captivating documentary that takes viewers on an archaeological adventure into the heart of Egypt’s ancient history. Directed by Max Salomon, the film follows the legendary Egyptologist Dr. Zahi Hawass and his team as they embark on a quest to uncover the elusive Pyramid of Huni, believed to be over 4,000 years old. Amidst the rugged desert conditions, the team faces numerous challenges, but the allure of unraveling forgotten mysteries and preserving Egypt’s heritage keeps them motivated.

“As he is keen to remind us, his work has inspired generations across Egypt to pursue a field that was once a dead end, building a thriving community that now follows him into the desert in search of the next discovery. He has turned Egyptology from a field dominated by Westerners into one wholly led by Arabs.”

An Unexplored Journey

The documentary forms part of the “Unknown” series, which showcases scientific explorations in little-explored regions. In this installment, viewers are transported to the Saqqara necropolis near the Step Pyramid of Djoser, where Dr. Zahi Hawass leads the excavation. As one of the first native Egyptians to lead such digs, his mission is to prevent artifacts from being taken out of the country by foreign archaeologists and their sponsors.

Poster of the “Unknown The Lost Pyramid” by Netflix

A Race Against Time

The digging season in Egypt lasts for only nine months due to harsh desert conditions. Dr. Hawass’s team faces this ticking clock as they dig deeper into the ancient grounds. Alongside, Dr. Mostafa Waziri, a protégé of Dr. Hawass, leads a parallel search for an unlooted tomb dating back 2,600 years. The team’s excitement surges when they discover a rare and complete papyrus scroll, offering a unique insight into ancient times.

Personalities and Passions

Throughout the documentary, the charisma of Dr. Zahi Hawass shines through as he shares his unyielding dedication to preserving Egypt’s antiquities. His passion for archaeology ignited when he stumbled upon a statue of Aphrodite during an excavation, and it has since driven him to become a leading figure in Egyptian culture. Dr. Hawass’s pursuit of keeping Egyptology in the hands of its people has made him a folk hero, inspiring generations to pursue a field that was once limited to foreigners.

Dr. Zahi Hawass, Cairo, Egypt. Photo by Getty

The Human Side of Archaeology

“Unknown: The Lost Pyramid” strives to humanize the field of archaeology by showcasing the personal motivations and rivalries that drive the scientists. Dr. Hawass’s protégé, Dr. Waziri, adds an intriguing dynamic with his ego-driven ambitions. The documentary skillfully interweaves their quests, creating a sense of friendly competition as they race against time and each other to unearth significant discoveries.

Real-Life Adventures vs. Fiction

Dr. Zahi Hawass’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and discovery sets him apart from the fictional Indiana Jones, whose cinematic adventures captivated audiences worldwide. The documentary’s success lies in its ability to transform dry scientific topics into an enthralling and adventurous narrative. By showcasing the excavations through the eyes of the archaeologists, the film brings a sense of immediacy and excitement to the exploration process.

A still from “Unknown: The Lost Pyramid” movie by Netflix

Impact and Global Recognition

Upon its release, “Unknown: The Lost Pyramid” quickly became a global sensation, earning the top spot on Netflix’s charts worldwide. Dr. Hawass’s infectious enthusiasm and genuine love for his work resonated with viewers, making the documentary a profound and moving experience. It sheds light on the importance of preserving historical treasures within their country of origin and highlights the pivotal role played by native archaeologists in advancing our understanding of ancient civilizations.

“Unknown: The Lost Pyramid” offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the world of archaeology, where passion, perseverance, and a thirst for knowledge fuel the pursuit of hidden treasures. Dr. Zahi Hawass’s unwavering commitment to preserving Egypt’s heritage and inspiring future generations is nothing short of remarkable. Through this extraordinary documentary, viewers are reminded of the genuine magic found in the quest to uncover the past, and it stands as a testament to the allure of embracing simplicity and meaning in our lives. Whether you are an avid history enthusiast or simply seeking an adventure, “Unknown: The Lost Pyramid” is a must-watch that will leave you in awe of the wonders of ancient Egypt.

A still from “Unknown: The Lost Pyramid” movie by Netflix