Atomic Homefront 2018
Distributed by Women Make Movies, 115 W. 29th Street, Suite 1200,New York, NY, 10001; 212-925-0606
Produced by Rebecca Cammisa, James Freydberg, and Larissa Bills
Directed by Rebecca Cammisa
DVD, color, 96 min.
High School - General Adult
Public Health, Ecology, Science, Social Justice
Date Entered: 12/11/2018
Reviewed by Kristan Majors, Woodruff Library, Emory UniversityA haunting documentary about a community’s battle with the U.S. government to clean-up nuclear waste. Covering more than 75 years, the film includes historic and current news footage, EPA public hearings, and interviews from scientists, locals, and community organizers.
The majority of the film follows the day-to-day work of community organizers from 2014-2016. This is the ideal film for other communities to view while seeking ways to have their own voices heard. In addition to the local activists, viewers can learn from Lois Gibbs, Love Canal grassroots leader and social justice trainer, as she provides guidance and support to the St. Louis community.
When considering if this documentary can be used in the classroom, instructors should note the film lasts over an hour and does not include a menu. Therefore, instructors will need to plan ahead and select appropriate sections in advance. For universities deterred by the purchase price, you may already have a documentary about Superfund sites in your collections better suited for public health and environmental science classrooms. For instance, Tar Creek, and Frontline’s Poisoned Waters, remain relevant and are likely better options for classroom viewing. If planning a film series, these three documentaries would complement one another.