Top Picks: Journeys of Invention app, 'Last Emperor of Mexico,' and more
Imperial rule in Mexico
Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, brother of 19th-century Austrian Emperor Franz Josef I, stepped out of his brother’s shadow when he was named emperor of Mexico in 1864. His rule would end just a few years later, however, and the new Smithsonian Channel program Last Emperor of Mexico examines what brought about the end of the Second Mexican Empire. It airs on Oct. 2 at 8 p.m.
Invention creation
Dive into how such creations as the microscope and the Enigma Machine came about with the app Journeys of Invention. Users can examine artifacts from London’s Science Museum and check out photos and videos explaining their history as well as fun facts from the Science Museum curators. The app is $9.99 for iOS.
Behind-the-scenes romance
Add to the list of intriguing Hollywood romances the behind-the-scenes couple featured in Harold and Lillian, which is available on DVD and Blu-ray. The documentary tells the story of storyboard artist and production designer Harold Michelson and his wife, researcher Lillian, both of whom did important work on some of the most famous movies of all time, including “The Ten Commandments” and “Fiddler on the Roof.”
Legendary creator
Some of the most indelible and beloved movie images and characters of our time – from a menacing shark in the Atlantic Ocean to a boy taking flight on a bicycle with an alien passenger – have come from director Steven Spielberg. The new HBO documentary Spielberg looks at his career and his contributions to American cinema. It airs Oct. 7 at 8 p.m.
Royalty returns
Looking to see the classic film The Princess Bride on the big screen? As you wish. Fathom Events is bringing back the fairy-tale film, starring Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, and Mandy Patinkin, to theaters on Oct. 15 and 18. Check www.fathomevents.com to see if it will be playing at a theater nearby. It’s rated PG.
