Joyce Wagner
In Motion Staff Writer
Earth Day conjures up different thoughts for people. For some, it is a day designated to cleaning up a particular area such as a beach or park. Others search out loud, ear-shattering music performed by numerous bands at concerts typically sponsored by local radio stations.
Intended to raise awareness about the environment and to preserve natural resources, Earth Day was established in 1970. Some people celebrate this during the spring equinox each March. More popularly, it is recognized as being held on April 22, as noted on many calendars.
Daytona State College will celebrate the 43rd Earth Day, April 22, 2014, with four thought-provoking films. Each will be shown in the Southeast Museum of Photography Building, Madorsky Theater.
Starting the series at 12:00 p.m., is “Mother: Caring for 7 Billion.” This film takes a hard look at the ever-increasing population. Additionally, it points out how mankind has continually depleted resources necessary for survival. The movie, directed by Christopher Fauchere, is 60 minutes long.
“Trashed,” featuring renowned actor, Jeremy Irons, depicts the horrific problems of trash and waste pollution. It gives a graphic view of the affects on the environment and earth’s inhabitants. As shown by this film, our cheaper-to-replace-than-repair society has created massive landfills. Directed by Candida Brady, this movie is 98 minutes long.
Life depends on even the survival of earth’s ecosystems. Directed by Monte Thompson, “Call of Life: Facing the Mass Extiction,” brings this problem to the forefront. In a mere hour, this documentary looks at how this problem occurred and what can be done to slow or stop the destructive forces which have allow things to get so out of control.
Directed by Ben Kalina, “Shored Up” takes a serious look at climate change and disappearing coastlines. Using footage from 2012’s Superstorm Sandy, the 84 minute film shows the personal devastation when land, sea and weather collide.
Trailers of each movie are available online: http://www.motherthefilm.com; http://www.trashedfilm.com; http://www.calloflife.org and http://shoredupmovie.com.