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National Geographic Hits the Giant IMAX^® Screen

1 March 2001 – Oakland, CA: National Geographic, one of the most respected authorities on nature, world cultures, history and science, is venturing into new territory. Known for its work in print and television, National Geographic's new adventure takes audiences to the world of large-format films. It has teamed with Destination Cinema, a leading producer and distributor of large-format films, to release Mysteries of Egypt at IMAX^® theaters, including the new Chabot Space & Science Center in Oakland, California (www.chabotspace.org).

"Large-format film gives us an incredible opportunity to show Egypt like never before," says Tim Kelly, President, National Geographic Television. "Mysteries of Egypt will be as gripping as it is unique."

Never shown in such a monumental way before are breathtaking views of the pyramids and intimate explorations of the tombs and treasures that are truly captivating on screens up to 8 stories tall. The first time Lisa Truitt, the film's co-producer, looked over the massive rock pyramids and enormous structures marking the ancient Egyptian empire, she thought jokingly, "The pharaohs must have had these built for the giant screen."

Through historical reenactments and enchanting cinematography, Mysteries of Egypt explores one of civilization's most amazing empires that began some 5,000 years ago and continues to intrigue the world.

Legendary actor and native Egyptian Omar Sharif (Lawrence of Arabia, Doctor Zhivago) and Kate Maberly (The Secret Garden) join leading experts on the Egyptian empire and award-winning filmmakers to tell a fascinating story of Egypt. 

National Geographic's unparalleled access to the ancient civilization's most spectacular treasures is due to its 85 extraordinary years of covering Egypt and funding major archeological research. National Geographic has brought Egypt's wonders to its nine million members and worldwide audiences in six cover articles, 36 major feature articles, and 18 television programs. Its Committee for Research and Exploration has also awarded more than 80 research grants to support scientific field projects in Egypt.

Mysteries of Egypt is the first large-format film co-produced by National Geographic Films and Destination Cinema in association with NOVA/WGBH Boston, Museum of Science and Industry-Chicago, Canadian Museum of Civilization, and Centex Investment Limited.

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