EARTH AND THE AMERICAN DREAM

The impact is nothing less than staggering. Five centuries of human history, from the Pinta to the Exxon Valdez, unfurl in an epic timescape of artwork, archival footage and ironic quotes from major historical leaders, scoundrels and prophets. A stinging thesis underscores the images: the rise of American “civilization” came with a terrible price in environmental devastation and social dehumanizing. Granted a perspective of nearly ten lifetimes, the viewer lives through the buffalo's demise, genocide of the native tribes, pioneer settlement, the automotive invasion, consumer culture, war, and the dubious mastery of the atom. You will be dazzled and yet understand why some people wish Columbus had stayed home. Readings by Harrison Ford, Rod Steiger, Bette Midler, Anthony Hopkins, and many others. C.C.