Tad the Lost Explorer and the Emerald Tablet (2022)

Whilst excavating a tomb in South America, would-be archaeologist “Tad” discovers the most unlikely of objects – an Egyptian mummy. Derided by his rather academic colleagues, he is sent back to Chicago where his apartment is full of treasures that he has been obliged to keep under wraps – one such antiquity being an enthusiastically alive Aztec mummy called, well quite aptly – “Mummy”. When his erstwhile colleagues discover this sarcophagus and return it to America, he – armed with what he thinks is a key, and assisted by his friend “Sara” manages to get into the museum, open the coffin and release…. Soon all human life is at risk, and they must race to obtain the sacred emerald tablet that will fulfil the dearest wish of it’s owner – for good or ill! It’s derivative. Yes. Loads of “Indiana Jones” style scenarios with bits of Brendan Fraser’s “Mummy” thrown in too. Indeed, the score reminded me very much of the latter series (and of a Turkish Delight ad). The characterisations are all about the usual loyalty, friendship, teamwork and determination – ideal fodder to leave the youngsters in front of. The animation is adequate, and the story moves along apace with plenty of action to keep it skipping along nicely for just short of ninety minutes. It benefits from an engaging story and though really quite forgettable, I did quite enjoy it.