When Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring was published in 1962, the book became a phenomenon. A passionate and eloquent warning about the long-term dangers of pesticides, the book unleashed an extraordinary national debate and was greeted by vigorous attacks from the chemical industry. But it would also inspire President John F. Kennedy to launch the first-ever investigation into the public health effects of pesticides — an investigation that would eventually result in new laws governing the regulation of these deadly agents.
Featuring the voice of Mary-Louise Parker as the influential writer and scientist, Rachel Carson is an intimate portrait of the woman whose groundbreaking books revolutionized our relationship to the natural world. Drawn from Carson’s own writings, letters and recent scholarship, this film illuminates both the public and private life of the woman who launched the modern environmental movement and revolutionized how we understand our relationship with the natural world. This is the official description on PBS. Image Sources: PBS
Interviews and cast include:
- Michelle Ferrari -Director, Writer, Producer
- Raphael De La Uz -Producer
- Mary-Louise Parker -Actress, Narrator
- Oliver Platt -Actor, Narrator
Reviews of Rachel Carson Documentary
“In the 60s, chemicals were everywhere — in food, in crops, in everything. Carson was the first person to point out there’s a price to be paid for that world. She guided us towards an understanding of the interrelatedness of nature, and challenged us to think about our impact on the world around us. And that is certainly something that resonates as strongly today as it did 50 years ago.” – American Experience EP, Mark Samels
“The film leaves a viewer reflecting on their roles with nature, perhaps inspiring a drive to understand it better, factor it more into consideration when using tools and technology and take caution in human’s abilities to affect the natural world.” – Earthzine.org, Dani Leviss
Review by Rachel Avalon
The PBS documentary, Rachel Carson, poetically delves into the extraordinary personal and professional life of the godmother of modern environmentalism. Through her brave and legendary work as an author, marine biologist, and conservationist, it comes as no surprise that Rachel Carson is still highly revered by millions of people around the world. Not only did she expose the dangers of pesticides, like DDT, corporate recklessness, a lack of governmental regulations, and misguided attempts to dominate nature, Carson also refused to accept the sexist, societal norms of her time. Watching this biography of Rachel Carson will undoubtedly inspire viewers of all ages to deepen their connection with the natural world and passionately help protect it as this iconic, environmental advocate once did. Personally, I have long admired Rachel Carson and how her fearless love of nature helped shape my own life and life’s work as an environmentalist and health coach. This beautiful film certainly added another layer. American Experience first debuted this film on PBS. It was also added to Netflix.
Watch the movie trailer here (Chapter 1)
My mission: As a Holistic Health Coach & Eco Expert, I’m dedicated to leading you straight to the core of what it takes to enjoy a new level of vitality, desired weight loss, sustainability, and detoxification. Enjoy my transformative programs and experience true health with true purpose!
Explore the best list of documentaries on health, mindfulness, sustainability, and creating a better world here on RachelAvalon.com
Leave a Reply