1.5 Stay Alive

In North America, climate change is sometimes a source of benign humor, such as when someone thanks global warming for an unseasonably toasty winter day. But for those under the most immediate threat of climate change, the situation is no laughing matter. Lucian Segura’s alarming documentary begins in the Caribbean region, where the average temperature has increased by one-degree Celsius since the middle of the last century. Residents of Guyana report that due to arctic ice melt, sea levels are rising at five times the international average, resulting in faster-building and more devastating major-category tropical storms, threats to coral reefs, and negative effects on fisheries, while also stoking fears about the future. The film argues that a mere half-degree higher temperature will produce catastrophic results in the Caribbean and beyond. Moving north to Florida, Segura examines the impact of rising sea levels that are predicted to erase much of the land mass, including the Miami area. Miami-Dade County has invested in a multi-million dollar pump system to address immediate concerns. But critics of the pumps would prefer that the money was spent on preventative measures to help stabilize--and even possibly reverse--melting polar ice. Although the effects of global warming--especially in the Caribbean area--are predicted to be huge, the cumulative causes of greenhouse gasses mostly come from elsewhere in the world. Addressing the issue is beyond the capabilities of any single nation, and will require a concerted effort from "team Earth." Also featuring outstanding, rhythm-infused musical performances addressing the titular subject with passion and conviction, this documentary designed to increase awareness and consciousness about the planet’s most pressing problem is highly recommended. Editor’s Choice. Aud: J, H, C, P. (C. Block)