Co-directed by Chuck Davis and University of Virginia professor Tim Beatley, Ocean Cities follows the latter as he visits cities situated on the ocean shore in both America and abroad. Part one looks at the community connection to the sea by focusing on Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, where several initiatives are drawing urbanites to the waterfront for kayaking, clean-up, and the promotion of a healthy harbor. Using hydro power from the river’s current along with solar energy, "Mr. Trash Wheel" sits in the river and pulls trash up on its moving belts. And in Miami, students from Title I schools take day trips to explore ocean life in Biscayne Bay. In part two, Beatley examines sustainable seafood at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco, where non-profit groups are convincing restaurant owners and individuals to source food that is not harmful to the ocean environment. Part three looks at rising sea levels and efforts to plan for a future that could witness an elevation of over four feet this century. In Miami, new pumps, larger storm drains, and elevated streets have been constructed, while in nearby Coral Gables the mayor is identifying what is critical for the city to save. Part four looks at new ways of constructing water drainage systems and buildings. In Rotterdam, for example, multiple-use design involves amphitheater structures, underground parking, and other concrete pool-like areas that will allow for water collection when necessary. And in Amsterdam, floating houses have been built using concrete hulls filled with water. A timely look at the challenges facing coastal cities in an era of climate change, this is highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (T. Root)
Ocean Cities
(2018) 56 min. DVD: $39: public libraries; $89: high schools; $195: colleges & universities. DRA. Green Planet Films. PPR. SDH captioned. Volume 33, Issue 6
Ocean Cities
Star Ratings
As of March 2022, Video Librarian has changed from a four-star rating system to a five-star one. This change allows our reviewers to have a wider range of critical viewpoints, as well as to synchronize with Google’s rating structure. This change affects all reviews from March 2022 onwards. All reviews from before this period will still retain their original rating. Future film submissions will be considered our new 1-5 star criteria.
Order From Your Favorite Distributor Today: