Revenge of the Electric Car 2011
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by WestMidWest Production
Directed by Chris Paine
DVD, color, 90 min.
Sr. High-General Adult
Environmental Studies, Business, Economics
Date Entered: 06/28/2012
Reviewed by Paul Basileo, Suffolk County Community College, Selden, NYDirector and writer, Chris Paine presents a different perspective on the future of the electric car in this documentary. Though the environmental arguments favoring the movement are explored, the majority of the emphasis is placed on the business case for electric cars through four different automotive innovators, varying in experience, scope and intent.
While there is a slight element of Hollywood participation in the film, from the narration of Tim Robbins to the appearance of several celebrities, the production value, slick as it may be, wasn’t driving the message of the film. The one common thread through the disparate experiences of the four principles was the inevitability of the electric car as a necessary part of the transportation market. Savvy executives who had been skeptics a half decade earlier were now bringing forth extensive business and marketing plans with the electric automobile as a primary focus. The ride for each of these individuals is filled with highs and lows; an uncertainty that serves as a microcosm of this facet of the industry in general.
Carlos Goshn of Nissan, Bob Lutz of General Motors and Elon Musk of Tesla explain their approaches to corner particular sectors of this emerging market before their competition have the opportunity to do so. The story of Reverend Gadget, one who retrofits old automobile chassis with this technology, illustrates the passion that is at the foundation of the demand for these products. The stories weave together to make a strong case for substantial changes in transportation trends.
Overall, this film effectively demonstrates the intersection of environmental and economic concerns. The dramatic staging and production quality will keep viewers engaged with content that is relatable to a wide variety of learners. While gauging the extent to which electric cars have their “revenge” may be coupled to short-term market forces, this film is extremely relevant to the discussions we are having today with regard to energy, transportation and economics.
Awards
- Environmental Media Award Winner for Best Documentary, 2011