Clearly, dirt doesn't enjoy a good name—just think of “dirt poor” and “dirty jokes.” Yet in filmmakers Bill Benenson and Gene Rosow's Dirt! The Movie, narrated by Jamie Lee Curtis, dirt emerges as one of the noblest substances on earth (cute, too, in the form of an animated character named “Mr. Dirt” who makes an appearance). Dirt's well-being is essential to the survival of living things. Indeed, soil itself is “very much alive,” notes one of the numerous experts who explain how dirt sustains and nurtures humans (one French interviewee goes so far as to claim that “dirt is my lover”). Unfortunately, monoculture farming and the skyrocketing demand for natural resources (resulting in excessive logging and strip-mining) have radically altered our relationship with the ground that supports us in so many ways, with catastrophic environmental consequences related to climate change, mass starvation, and drought. Yet, the film (based on the book Dirt: The Ecstatic Skin of the Earth, by William Bryant Logan) remains optimistic while seeking commentary from farmers, scientists, and activists around the world, pointing out that individuals can make a difference. Extensive DVD extras include bonus interviews, additional scenes, extended animations, and filmmaker bios. Highly recommended. [Note: this is also available with public performance rights for $295 from Bullfrog Films, www.bullfrogfilms.com.] Aud: C, P. (J. Whiting)
Dirt! The Movie
(2009) 80 min. DVD: $26.95. Docurama (avail. from most distributors). ISBN: 1-4229-7865-6. Volume 25, Issue 4
Dirt! The Movie
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