KingDirtTheMovie

=Dirt! The Movie = (2009) Directors: Bill Benenson, Gene Rosow, Eleonore Dailly

=== Central Argument/Narrative === The fates of dirt and humans are infinitely and intimately linked. Today's heightened demand for natural resources has completely changed our relationship with dirt. Though, many hands of few can make great change.

===Matrix of Sustainability Problems === The world has lost one-third of its topsoil in the last century. The popular agricultural technique of monoculture is mostly to blame. Other agricultural practices, such as the use of nitrogen fertilizers, have negative effects. Nitrogen compounds make their way into rivers and streams which causes the algae population to spike thus suffocating fish.

Dirt is even linked to education and wellness. Studies have shown that when children grow their own food through "hands on" activities they learn more about science and are nutritionally healthier.

===Persuasive & Compelling === Many aspects of this film make it both persuasive and compelling. One aspect that runs throughout the movie is that testimonials are present from experts from around the world. By showing "non-white" experts, the film illustrates that this is a global issue.

Animations are also found throughout the storyline. They are a definite plus as they capture the audience's attention and lighten up the mood while personifying dirt microorganisms.

One analogy presented in the film really resounded with me as one who admires libraries. The comparison was made between the prairie and a library. In a demonstration of the differences between an annual and perennial root system, the presenter made the point that one plant does not hold the answer just as one book does not. This is a very persuasive argument against the practice of monoculture.

Lastly the scenes of removing the asphalt from playgrounds was compelling as one watches the students play in the dirt (for some for the first time). The importance of "playing with the dirt" is furthered by the success of the prisoner release programs that are focused around "doing work with dirt."

===Environmental Educational Value === This movie surely possesses environmental educational value. Strong examples are shown that advocate the need to collect and share seed varieties. Also, this film demonstrates the effectiveness of digging. People love to dig, and when they do, they live better. Uncommon to many films shown in class, //Dirt!// shows actual examples of what to do to help throughout instead of a few bullet points at the end.

===**Points of Intervention ** === Points of interventions include lowering soil erosion to zero as a first step and promoting community supported agriculture (CSA) in all regions.

===Seek Out New Information === TreePeople Biologically powered lamps <@http://www.treehugger.com/files/2008/11/led-lamp-runs-on-dirt.php>