Planetary

Made as a contribution to the Earth Day events of 2015, Guy Reid's documentary concerning the dangers posed to the planet by climate change is often visually stunning, but the accompanying talking-head interview excerpts grow increasingly repetitive and banal. Reid begins with observations by astronauts who attest that their view of Earth from space—shown in NASA footage—impressed upon them not only its fragility but the common mission of all humans to preserve it. This sense of responsible interconnectedness becomes the film's motif as a large roster of commentators, scientists, and explorers (as well as others identified as “eco-philosopher,” “mindfulness teacher,” and “futurist”) offer bite-sized pronouncements about how we must all work together to reverse environmentally dangerous practices. Zen Buddhist teachers are prominent here, and their admonitions—along with those of Native Americans and yoga instructors—take Planetary further from the realm of scientific analysis and more into the area of spiritual exhortation. While the interviewees' earnestness is genuine, the stream of “we are the world” platitudes ultimately grows tedious. While it likely served its purpose of rousing true believers on Earth Day, Planetary taken by itself comes across more as a combination of stern lecture and heartfelt sermon than serious argument aimed at the unconverted. Presented in its full-length version, along with 52-minute and 43-minute editions, extras include the short film “Overview” and a PDF study guide. A strong optional purchase. Aud: H, C, P. (F. Swietek)