Islands Of New England

Produced and written by Roynn Lisa Simmons, this beautifully photographed documentary looks at a handful of islands off the New England coast, and examines how the changing times have changed some communities. On Block Island, which has become a model for conservation, several endangered species live in protection, while on Newport it's the gilt mansions from the Golden Age that are preserved. Here, the filmmakers visit Mark Malkovich III, who organizes the annual Newport Classic Music Festival, and later visits the tourist favorite Martha's Vineyard, site of the oldest carousel in the U.S. On Nantucket Island, historian Ed Dougan recalls the whaling days of old, and author Blue Balliet (Ghost of Nantucket) discusses her love of ghost stories and shares some supernatural lore from the area. And on Matinicus Island, Emmery Philbrook, Clayton Philbrook, and Nick Philbrook represent three generations of lobstermen, though little Nick may face hard going when he comes of age, as the lobster seem to be disappearing. Islands of New England is a lovely film that captures both the strong New England traditions and dying insularity of the people, as wracked economies are forced to depend more and more on the tourist trade. Highly recommended. (Available from: Quality Books, Inc., 918 Sherwood Dr., Lake Bluff, IL 60044-2204; (708) 295-2010.)