Written and directed by Stephen Sommers, The Mummy (1999) was loosely based on the 1932 Classic Universal Monster Movie starring Boris Karloff in the title role. In 1290 B.C. Ancient Egypt, high priest Imhotep has an affair with the Pharaoh's mistress and is condemned to be entombed alive… with the vow that he will return to resurrect his beloved. In 1923, Imhotep's tomb is uncovered and his curse unleashed. An treasure-hunting adventurer and a museum librarian (who is also an aspiring Egyptologist) must find the incantation that will return Imhotep to the land of the dead. The 1920's museum and archaeological atmosphere are well conveyed, with an aged tone. The CGI effects, with scarabs and plague infestations, are spectacular. The mummy effects, in particular, are well conceived. Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz are good in the lead roles. Arnold Vosloo is frightening as Imhotep. Patricia Velasquez has a brief but lovely role as Anck-Su-Namun, Imhotep's lover. The supporting cast is fine as well, including John Hannah, Kevin J. O'Connor and Jonathan Hyde.
