The Greening of Southie 2007
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by Curtis Ellis
Directed by Ian Cheney
DVD, color, 46 and 72 minute versions
Sr. High - Adult
Architecture, Environmental Studies, Urban Studies
Date Entered: 11/12/2008
Reviewed by Barbara Butler, University of Oregon Institute of Marine BiologyThe first LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified residential building constructed in South Boston (Southie) is the subject of this documentary. Viewers see construction of the Macallen building from the ground up and learn what sets a LEED certified building apart from standard construction projects. LEED certified buildings are healthier and safer for occupants; energy and water efficient; use recycled and local materials; have lower operating costs; and emit fewer greenhouse gasses.
The film is comprised of 22 well-edited chapters that weave together interviews with architects, builders and tenants to describe what is involved in “building green”. We see the challenges, pitfalls and setbacks encountered in the quest to obtain the “Gold”, or highest level of LEED certification, for the Macallen building. If pressed for time, a 46 minute version of the film covers all but three of the chapters. Both the 46 and 72 minute versions are also presented in “bleeped” versions that mask potentially offensive language.
It is easy to see why this unique documentary has received so many awards and it is a wonderful primer on “building green” for general audiences as well as classroom use.
Highly recommended for high-school, college and public libraries.