Dirty Business

This straight-shooting documentary takes a skeptical but judicious look at the future of coal-based energy, focusing on the two major consumers in the world: America and China. Incorporating the findings of New York Times and Rolling Stone environmental reporter Jeff Goodell (a frequent commentator here), the first stop on director Peter Bull's fact-filled eco-tour is the West Virginia hinterlands, where viewers get a sobering look at the damage strip mining and mountaintop removal are doing to the surrounding small towns, as some of the nation's most economically challenged areas have their natural resources plundered by some of the wealthiest energy companies (other locales visited include Kansas, Nevada, and New York). The only thing these corporations seem to leave in their wake is toxic sludge. Of course, the same thing is happening in China's rural areas, but in subtler forms, with country folk migrating en masse to the cities while their native lands are increasingly tapped for their coal-producing potential. All of this sets up speculation on the inevitable future China-versus-USA drama: can the United States capitalize on new procedures related to economical “energy recycling,” or will China be the one to perfect and implement countrywide solar and wind power? Featuring both the full-length and 60-minute abridged versions, DVD extras include the bonus short, “What Is Clean Coal?” Recommended. Aud: C, P. (M. Sandlin)