Hurricane on the Bayou

Director Greg MacGillivray initially set out to make a very different film: one that explored Louisiana's wetlands, particularly the causes—both man-made (levees and canals) and natural (wind and wave erosion)—of the wetlands' steady and alarming disappearance. With the loss of what's referred to as "our natural speed bump for hurricanes," the IMAX filmmakers wondered, what would happen if a major storm were to hit the area? And then, of course, it did. Although the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 has already been well-chronicled on film (and some may now be inured to the tragic scenes of New Orleans' flooded streets, ruined homes, and shattered lives), Hurricane on the Bayou is filled with stunning images—from the beautiful “before” to the horrific “after.” Narrated by Meryl Streep, the film features a soundtrack with N'Awlins legends such as Louis Armstrong, Fats Domino, Allen Toussaint, and Dr. John, as well as bayou bluesman Tab Benoit and young fiddler Amanda Shaw, whose onscreen stories also add a personal touch (Benoit's home was destroyed, while Amanda spent days not knowing the fate of her grandparents). DVD extras include a "making -of" documentary. A smart, edifying, and entertaining film that underscores the importance of restoring the wetlands and saving a vibrant city's culture, Hurricane on the Bayou is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Graham)