Educational Media Reviews Online

If you have ever wondered how a deep-sea submarine is constructed, then this is the video for you! Originally aired on the public television series Nova, this film chronicles the construction of the “Alicia”, a six-person submarine designed for underwater tourism. Viewers will see the trials and tribulations that went into this four-year, multi-million-dollar project undertaken by Texas businessman Peter Robbins. While the “Alicia”, with a panoramic window has an advantage over research submarines such as the “Alvin” with only three small portholes, the panoramic window was not without complications. Viewers learn the technical details that go into molding and polishing the window designed to withstand the incredible pressure of the deep sea. The film is well edited, making use of interviews, technical schematics and well-documented technical specifications to tell the story of the “Alicia.” This story that takes place over a number of years and through careful editing, the final product holds the viewers attention. This DVD contains supplemental materials for educators and is recommended it for both public and school libraries.