Arctic Refuge: A Vanishing Wilderness?

Meryl Streep narrates this National Audubon Society Special which examines the controversy surrounding a 100-mile stretch of coastal Alaskan plain in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Oil companies have reason to believe that there is oil to be found here, while conservationists claim that the area is a prime calving spot for the caribou, as well as home to many indigenous species. The first half of the program examines the conflict from both sides, interviewing oil representatives and members of the local population. After pointing out that the oil, if found, could only provide for the country's needs for seven months at best, the program shifts to an exploration of advances in alternative energy sources: wind power, solar energy, more efficient car engines, etc. Beautifully filmed, Arctic Refuge offers a wondrous visual tapestry of Alaskan coastal environment, but does seem to lose its focus a bit during the second half when subjects as various as florescent lighting and the Greenhouse Effect are addressed. Still, this is a good program--it's just not as tightly knit as it should have been. Recommended. (Available from: PBS Video, 1320 Braddock Place, Alexandria, VA 22314-1698; 1-800-424-7963.)