Voices of Transition 2014
Distributed by Green Planet Films, PO Box 247, Corte Madera, CA 94976-0247; 415-377-5471
Produced by Nils Aguilar
Directed by Nils Aguilar
DVD , color, 65 min.
Sr. High - General Adult
Agriculture, Ecology, Urban Areas, Urban Agriculture
Date Entered: 05/04/2015
Reviewed by Kristan Majors, Woodruff Library, Emory UniversityFarmers, scientists, and community activists passionately build their case for sustainable farming. Three very different farming communities in France, England, and Cuba are introduced in the documentary. Viewers meet people frustrated with industrial agriculture and share their personal experiences with community building and sustainable agriculture. Complementing the many interviews, the filmmakers include historic news footage and agrochemical commercials. The photography is excellent and up-to-date.
The film can be viewed in its entirety or by chapter: (1) France and Sustainable Agriculture; (2) England and Resilient Communities; (3) Cuba and Urban Farming Co-ops. The issues discussed include urban farming, resilience, community building, transition towns, and food sovereignty. If you view only one chapter, I recommend the chapter about Cuba.
For educational purposes, this documentary should not stand alone as it provides one-side of the agriculture debate. That said, the film could kick start an interesting discussion if supplemented with readings or other films. Many other similar agricultural documentaries are available including Land of Plenty, Land of Want (1999), Fed Up (2014), Growing Change (2011), and Cuba: The Accidental Revolution (2006). In comparison, Voices of Transition stands out for viewers seeking a brief video that is fast-paced and entertaining.
Awards
- Best Environmental Film 2014 Award, Colorado International Film Festival