The Mummy w/ Brendan Fraser

Yes, I know, I usually tag the director of the film in the title however this trilogy had two directors, but one leading man. So I found this easier for me. And yes, I did watch all three of these back to back within the past couple days. What fun adventure films!!

The Mummy, directed by Stephen Sommers, came out in 1999. The premise is an archeological dig where they accidentally call a mummy back to life. The mummy is in search of his lost love, and hi-jinks ensue. The story is told primarily in Egypt, set in the 1920's, and is a really enjoyable film. It has a great cast of Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz (the love interest), and John Hannah (brother to Weisz's character, and comic relief). It is a loose adaptation of the original 1930's film.

The Mummy Returns, also directed by Stephen Sommers, was released in 2001. Seven years after the first film, Rick (Fraser's character) and his wife Evelyn (Weisz) are exploring ancient ruins in Egypt, again, and discover the bracelet of Anubis. In this early scene, their son Alex, has a moment where his actions mimic his mothers in the first film - reusing a visual gag, but also making very clear that he is related to them. It is somewhat charming. Naturally, Alex is playing around with the bracelet, it snaps closed on his wrist and shows him where a hidden city is. And the adventure begins. There is the return of some of the same characters, including the mummy of course, as well as a variety of other undead creatures. This story takes place through London, and Egypt, and also introduces us to the character of the Scorpion King (Dwayne Johnson) who runs off with his own franchise. Again, a very fun film to watch along with some emotional storylines as well.

The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, from 2008 and directed by Rob Cohen, provides some twists but still keeps a similar plotline as the first two. The differences start with this taking place in China, and featuring Rick and Evelyn's son Alex who is grown-up and doing his own thing. Naturally Alex is played by a different actor...as is Evelyn for some reason. Either way, a mummy (Jet Li) awakens, has supernatural powers and wants to raise the terracotta army, and Rick, Evelyn, Alex, and Uncle Jonathan have to save the day... well, they help save the day as they are really assisting two other characters, one played by Michelle Yeoh. It is another super fun adventure that is satisfying to watch.