New Mexico: The Land of Enchantment

Although this entry in the Santa Fe Video Collection is a wee bit old (1994), New Mexico's endearing qualities are, fortunately, largely timeless. A stirring historical and scenic look at the New Mexican landscape as highlighted by such seasonal splendors as the color changing aspens in the autumn, as well as popular indigenous happenings such as an old time fiddlers' festival, New Mexico: Land of Enchantment offers a multicultural celebration of a state rich in vibrant Spanish Colonial and Native American cultural traditions. Narrated by actor Peter Strauss, this documentary--originally broadcast on the Disney channel--is less touristy than a Rick Steves guide, but also less adventurous than a Lonely Planet extravaganza. Still, for those willing to pay what is essentially double the price for most travelogues, this program succeeds in whetting the audience's desire to get to know the beauty and grandeur of New Mexico. Recommended, overall. Aud: P. (M. Tribby)