Beyond (2005)

Victorian images of a jolly plump old imp, who brings children presents at Christmas, is a product of fiction, Coca-Cola marketing and religious adaptation. However, the factual pagan sources upon which the character was based is far more sinister and disturbing than many are aware.

The code is exposed, but what inspired the people who created the hoax that captured the minds of millions remains a compelling and provocative mystery. A mystery, which when cross referred with other episodes in this season, points to more than just a religious conspiracy.

A brave new land is forged by a group of Masons. A new democracy, which within 200 years comes to rule the world through economic means, is symbolized by twin pillars. The Beyond team interviews a Grand Mason in his temple in one of the most candid interviews ever given by a Mason on camera. One of our most controversial episodes ever.

Beyond examines the earliest accounts of the Vampire phenomenon and how they are interwoven with other supernatural predators. The product is a look that goes deeper than the popular aspects of the myth explored by Bram Stoker or modern Goth culture.

Wraiths, sprites, fairies, leprechauns, trolls, etc., the modern view of most elementals is largely harmless and quaint but the reality of these strange creatures could be far more sinister and disturbing than one might think.

An examination of natural phenomena that are likely explanations for the strangely perplexing events that have been observed and recorded in the triangle regions since 1492.

Although reincarnation can be examined in its simplest form as rebirth after death, there are several forms of reincarnation that about one third of the world's population believes in. We examine both the religious and philosophical aspects of reincarnation as well as conduct interviews with different practitioners ranging from a theology professor who has glimpsed an unusual model of reincarnation to a para-psychology professor who has experience with Indian Reincarnation, a Buddhist, channelers, a Mason and an hypnotist involved in past life regressions. The common ground offers a fresh perspective on one of the oldest belief systems in the world for life after death.

A disturbing look at first hand, eye witness experiences of monsters and what follows in the wake of their appearances.

An introductory history of the Spear of Destiny is coupled with some enlightening post war information on the artifact that inspired Steven Spielberg's film "The Raiders of the Lost Ark".

Definition of clinical death is not precise. The Beyond research team discovered seven forms of life that survive clinical death within the body. With such concrete evidence, which blurs the border between life and death, it is hard to accept our current medical definitions, which are almost 200 years out of date. What follows is definitions of death as perceived by academics, scientists, theologians, regligionists, philosophers and paranormal practitioners. The overall outcome is somewhat liberating.

The function of Death exposed from an observational and even scientific perspective. Experts, eye witnesses and practitioners were all asked the same question in this episode. “What is death?” Their answers seemed to indicate for us that one of our fundamental beliefs is merely the final myth.

Experts, actors and crew who have worked on the series discuss some of the remarkable events and discoveries made during the shooting of the season.

The Grail has influenced our society in three ways and on three different levels. These impressions of the grail are examined and the ways in which modern society is impacted by both the legendary and not so legendary symbol are brought forth.