Must see DVDs
December 23, 2008 – 1:54 pmDocumentary and instructional films on DVD cover a stellar range of topics now. A few of broad interest in our adult collection include:
Bush’s brain [2004] Karl Rove, the man known as “Bush’s Brain”, is the most powerful political figure America has never heard of, the brain behind the curtain of today’s presidential politics. He is President George W. Bush’s closest advisor, who almost single-handedly shaped the policies of our nation. The relationship between Karl Rove and President George W. Bush is one of the most unique political marriages in history.
What the bleep do we know [2006] Amanda, a divorced photographer, finds herself bored and uninspired by everyday events. Suddenly, she envisions herself in a fantasy world with strange creatures and quirky representations of real-life subcellular particles. Interjected by discussions with mystics and scientists, she questions what reality is and searches for a redefinition of her perception of life. Explores the links between quantum mechanics, neurobiology, human consciousness, and day-to-day reality.
Fog of war [2004] The story of America as seen through the eyes of the former Secretary of Defense, under President Kennedy and President Johnson, Robert S. McNamara. McNamara was one of the most controversial and influential political figures of the 20th century.
The corporation [2005] The Corporation charts the spectacular rise of the corporation as a dramatic, pervasive presence in our everyday lives. With a deft mix of humor, visual panache and seriousness, this documentary is a timely, entertaining critique of global conglomerates.
Young at heart [2008] Young at Heart Chorus is based in Northampton, MA. See the final weeks of rehearsal for the group, whose average age is 81, and many of whom must overcome health adversities to participate. Their music is unexpected, going against the stereotype of their age group, performing songs that range from James Brown to Coldplay.
Darfur now [2008] Follows the stories of six individuals committed to end the sufferings in Sudan’s war-ravaged Darfur.
Two rivers [2005] This documentary about a group of whites and Native Americans in the Methow Valley of Washington that began meeting to discover why relationships between these groups were unknown outside of courtrooms. Film looks at the radical differences between the cultures and how Indian schools have affected Native families.
Rape of Europa [2008] Imagine the world without our masterpieces. Interviews with eyewitnesses and historians and newsreel footage show how heroic Europeans, Russians, and Americans worked to save the art of Europe during World War II.
Shine a light [2008] Martin Scorsee’s close up of The Rolling Stones in concert and off stage
Sustainable table [2006] “… takes an unadulterated look into the food you eat. What’s on your place? Where does it come from? What effects does it have on the environment and your body? What can you do to help?”
Green is the color of money [2006] In Boise, Idaho, local developer Gary Christensen and his team used a new approach to design the Banner Bank Building as an energy efficient building that earned the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED CS platinum rating for the same cost as standard construction.
Two men with the blues