‘Secrets of the Neanderthals’ Netflix Review - A Trip Down the History

History enthusiast! If you are into human evolution, this documentary is for you. Gear up for this informative ride on Neanderthals. Directed by Ashley Gething and narrated by Sir Patrick Stewart, this documentary follows the journey of the unearthing of an impeccably preserved Neanderthal skeleton, marking the most significant discovery of its kind in over twenty-five years. "Secrets of the Neanderthals" embarks on a captivating journey, challenging entrenched stereotypes of Neanderthals as primitive beings just like Homo Sapiens. Instead, it unveils them as members of a sophisticated and innovative society. Delving into the excavation of an exceptionally well-preserved Neanderthal skeleton, this exploration offers viewers a fascinating glimpse into the true complexity and creativity of these ancient species. Through meticulous analysis and expert narration, the documentary paints a vivid picture of Neanderthals' rich cultural and social dynamics, reshaping our understanding of human evolution. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of the past and discover the remarkable legacy of our Neanderthal ancestors.

In this documentary, the Shanidar Cave in Iraqi Kurdistan is the main character. Upon receiving approval from the local Department of Antiquities, the fragments of the skull were carefully transported to the UK, encased within sediment blocks. There, a meticulous process of extraction, stabilization, and reconstruction began, requiring over a year of painstaking work by an archaeological conservator to piece together the intricate puzzle of the ancient remains.

Upon completion, the reconstructed skull underwent scanning, leading to the creation of a 3D print. This print was then provided to Adrie and Alfons Kennis, renowned Dutch artists renowned for their skill in crafting accurate depictions using bone and fossil remnants. Their expertise brought to life a striking representation of what a Neanderthal might have looked like, a momentous unveiling showcased in Netflix’s "Secrets of the Neanderthals," captivating audiences worldwide towards the ending.

Beyond the reconstruction process, the study of the remains yielded profound insights challenging prevailing perceptions of Neanderthals. Expert analysis suggested that these ancient species were far from primitive or lacking in cognitive abilities, as previously assumed. Evidence such as sharpened stones resembling spears and cut marks on bones—both of fellow Neanderthals and other animals—hinted at a level of creativity and innovation previously underestimated. Notably, the Shanidar Cave emerged as a pivotal site, with mass findings indicating sophisticated burial practices among Neanderthals, shedding light on their rich cultural and social complexities.

This groundbreaking research and artistic reconstruction not only redefine our understanding of Neanderthals but also underscore the remarkable ingenuity and cultural depth of our ancient ancestors.

The documentary is very gripping. It keeps you hooked right from start to end. You will love it if you are a history enthusiast and even if you aren’t, it is still very interesting to watch. Secrets of Neanderthals explores deep into their lives and brings us a well-researched and documented show. The anecdotes, clippings, and interviews make it worth a watch.

Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times