Oliver Hodge's fascinating documentary Garbage Warrior tells the story of maverick architect Michael Reynolds, a determined environmentalist who specializes in building self-sustaining houses completely off the utility grid. Reynolds uses recycled materials such as tires, aluminum cans, glass jars, and plastic bottles to create structures that take advantage of sun, rain, and wind to provide food, water, and electricity. Living and working in Taos, NM, Reynolds experimented for years on one variation after another of his “Earthship” model, refining techniques and processes, while often coming up with houses that looked completely extraterrestrial. Reynolds also bought vast amounts of land on which he developed communities of self-sustaining dwellings—minus roads, utility hookups, sewer lines, etc. The first third of the film is essentially a tour of Reynolds' life work that takes a close-up look at the wild exteriors and even wilder interiors of his rambling houses. As the film progresses, viewers watch as Reynolds takes on the role of lobbyist, fighting to protect his visionary subdivisions from disapproving Taos and New Mexico authorities—a years-long process that involves learning interpersonal and political skills that just don't come naturally to the environmental warrior. And just when you think you know where Garbage Warrior is headed, current events come to the fore and we're suddenly enmeshed in a tale of a unique rescue mission drawing on Reynolds' strengths. DVD extras include interviews (one with Hodge, the other with late actor Dennis Weaver, for whom Reynolds built a house), and deleted scenes. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (T. Keogh)
Garbage Warrior
(2007) 86 min. DVD: $24.98. Morningstar Entertainment (avail. from most distributors). PPR. Volume 23, Issue 5
Garbage Warrior
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