CITIES OF THE UNDERWORLD

This is a cool show that surprisingly doesn't get the love that other similar shows seem to get in the popular entertainment media. Many people are familiar with how the ancient Italian city of Pompeii was buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. What isn't widely known, however, is that many cities, including several well-known urban centers, have a good chunk of their past buried beneath modern-day streets and buildings. Eric Geller and Don Wildman trade off exploring the "underworld," and while both are solid hosts, Geller's enthusiasm, particularly for going into somewhat dangerous situations, is engaging and sometimes amusing. Highlights are a look beneath Berlin and Hitler's plans for a German super-city, the Freemasons' subterranean efforts in Boston and Philadelphia and how the eruption of Vesuvius impacted nearby Naples, Italy. In 13 episodes they cover -- or uncover -- roughly 15 cities. And that without even going to Atlanta's underground or our abandoned subway system! (P.F. Wilson) Grade: A