The 9/11 terrorist attacks have been called the 102 minutes that changed both America and the world. Narrated by Martin Sheen, this Smithsonian Channel documentary presents a 10th anniversary "inside" look at the nation's confusion, uncertainty, and fear, followed by the determination and resolve to identify and punish the attackers. Filmmaker Leslie Woodhead's 9/11: Day That Changed the World begins with rare footage of President Bush jogging early in the morning of that clear-skied, beautiful but terrible day, before dropping in on an elementary school class in Florida. As word of the attacks spread, the decision had to be made about a possible shoot-down order that could kill innocent civilians on the planes (an official recalls that it was "like living in a Tom Clancy novel"). After grounding all civilian aircraft, a frantic attempt was made to secure key government officials, particularly the President, who had to be protected, but also seen to be in charge. The documentary features interviews with Mayor Rudy Giuliani, Vice President Dick Cheney, Laura Bush, Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, and a number of first responders, who recall nightmare images of victims leaping from upper floors at the World Trade towers, frustration at not being able to find or help survivors after the buildings collapsed, and post-disaster efforts to regain control and prevent another possible wave of attacks. 9/11 also covers the formation of the "Bush doctrine" on retaliating against countries aiding terrorists, as well as the need for military and political leaders to adjust their thinking, which had changed little since the end of the Cold War. DVD extras include the bonus program 9/11: Stories in Fragments. One of the best 9/11 anniversary documentaries, this powerful film is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)
9/11: Day That Changed the World
(2012) 136 min. DVD: $19.98. Inception Media Group (avail. from most distributors). Closed captioned. Volume 28, Issue 1
9/11: Day That Changed the World
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