Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Film Review: Shadow of Afghanistan: 1959-2012

By
Charles A. Smith



Shadow of Afghanistan is an must see for all Americans who have an opinion about the country Afghanistan or the people who inhabit it. In this documentary from Jim Burroughs and Suzanne Bauman, viewers will see an epic and little known story from the perspective of journalists who gave their lives for the truth, and independent filmmakers who covered the story from the Soviet occupation until the invasion of U.S. troops 20 years later. 

The Afghan people have had a hard hand to play as policies are forced upon them that benefit the occupier of the moment. Like most things, the truth is sometimes elusive, but Shadow of Afghanistan reveals it in a most compelling way, exposing the reality about this great country and its wonderful people. It thoroughly addresses their very strong will to survive the unwanted factions that have tried (and for the most part succeeded) to influence their lives and ways for  decades. A very independent and proud, but undereducated people, they have been strangely guided to their present situation and all they want is their lives back. Their history and way of life is beautiful and peaceful. They were neutral during the cold war, indicating their desire for peace. But they have won every war that has been waged against them, driving out the oppressor's military forces. In the process, however, the government that was left behind has been oppressive and controlling. 

The true story will leave viewers painfully aware of certain non truths that the media feeds us, and a misconception that follows to which we are blinded. Shadow of Afghanistan is a very good and informative DVD. It includes some amazing and revealing footage shot up close in very dangerous times and situations. This is one worth seeing if you want the facts without the fiction, or stated more accurately, "without the political spin." I highly recommend this DVD!!  

Friday, May 17, 2013

Film Review: Eye of the Future

Charles A. Smith


Eye of the Future is an intriguing story of creativity and problem resolution as seen through the eyes and imaginations of five children. The kids, who are the children of 5 UN ambassadors, are given a quest by Mother Earth to reduce the amount of the carbon in the earth;s atmosphere that's caused by mankind, thereby creating a sustainable future. Currently, the reading is 390 ppm (parts per million) and the children must bring that down to 350 ppm, which is a healthy state for the earth's air, water and land. They have until 2050 to get this done, and their young minds will stun viewers with the simplicity and ingenuity they use to solve the carbon problems for the world. Each show real solutions being done on a small scale in their respective countries, and imagine the effect on a larger scale.  Things being done across the globe to make clean, safe energy are revealed to viewers along with fantastic world panoramas.

Breathtaking cinematography with plenty of interesting facts make this a very interesting and informative DVD that's not just for children, but for all who are interested in saving the planet for the future generations who will habitat it. We must change the way we do things environmentally or the planet will not be able to support life the way it has. The children hold the audience's attention as they each guide you through their collective solution with a target of reaching this very critical goal.  Eye Of The Future, from director Catherine Cunningham, is a well produced documentary, and one that should be required viewing for all. The important messages conveyed by the film are expressed in a way that is engaging for all ages, and for that I commend the producers, because the message is loud and clear. The future belongs to those who prepare. I highly recommend this DVD!!