The Last Ancient Forests

Contrary to the title, this is not a measured examination of the current state of deforestation in either North America or the world, but rather a camcorder shot walk with James Renfield (author of the bestselling groaner The Celestine Prophecy) through the soon-to-be-logged old growth forests near Cobble Creek, Oregon. Various forest ecologists offer soundbites regarding the devastation wrought by clearcutting (notably flooding and waterways clogged with silt) while Renfield shakes his head in disgust, and viewers are occasionally shown stark b&w footage of trees being felled (designed apparently to evoke horror), but this is really little more than a PSA call to arms, urging all to write Bill and the Congress. While this unexceptional short film has picked up a few awards, there are far better examinations of the plight of ancient forests available, such as the older The Forest Through the Trees (VL-5/91). Still, a strong optional purchase given the celebrity tie-in and the low price, reduced from $9.95. Aud: I, J, H, P. (R. Pitman)