The War - A film By Ken Burns and Lynn Novick
This seven-episode documentary series delves into the profound and lasting impact of World War II on everyday American life, through the lens of four distinct towns across the United States. By weaving together narratives from Waterbury, Connecticut; Mobile, Alabama; Sacramento, California; and Luverne, Minnesota, the series captures the emotional and societal shifts experienced by ordinary citizens. It balances stark wartime realities wiht the resilience of communities that adapted to the absence of loved ones, offering a deeply human viewpoint on a global conflict. with vivid storytelling and a focus on personal histories, this production transforms historical events into relatable experiences, fostering a greater understanding of sacrifice, unity, and perseverance during one of the most transformative periods in history.
The series integrates firsthand accounts from veterans with the quiet determination of civilians who continued to navigate daily life during the war. This duality creates an immersive journey that highlights both the physical and psychological toll of conflict, while also celebrating the ingenuity and courage of those who supported the effort from the homefront.The inclusion of multiple formats, including Widescreen and Anamorphic, ensures a visually engaging experience, while the 15-hour runtime allows for a complete exploration. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about how the war affected ordinary Americans, this documentary offers a poignant and educational narrative that lingers long after the screen fades.
Pros and cons
- Pros:
- Immersive storytelling that connects global history to local experiences
- Compelling blend of wartime and civilian narratives
- High-quality production with detailed audio and visual formats
- Rich historical context and emotional depth
- Extensive customer reviews (4.8 stars, 1,573 ratings)
- Cons:
- Long runtime may require multiple viewing sessions
- NR rating may limit accessibility for some audiences
- 6-disc set could be cumbersome for storage
Feature | Detail |
---|---|
Format | Multiple Formats, Widescreen, Anamorphic |
Runtime | 15 hours |
Discs | 6 |
Release date | October 2, 2007 |
Studio | PBS |
Language | English (Dolby Digital 5.1) |
Making Documentary Films and Videos: A Practical Guide to Planning, Filming, and Editing Documentaries
the second edition of this acclaimed guidebook is a must-have for aspiring filmmakers. Now thoroughly updated for today's digital landscape, it equips you with the tools and insights needed to navigate both recording real-life behaviors and reconstructing historical events.With a focus on actionable steps-from crafting a compelling concept to mastering the final edit-this book ensures you understand the entire process, complete with expert advice on visual evidence, ethical considerations, and practical budgeting. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your approach, its revised content provides clarity on balancing authenticity and creative expression, offering a solid foundation for any documentary project.
covering everything from conceptualization to post-production, the guide delves into crucial aspects like writing for documentaries, assembling a skilled crew, and capturing high-quality sound and visuals. It emphasizes the importance of honesty in storytelling, helping filmmakers avoid common pitfalls and build trust with their audience. With an expanded section on research and proposal growth, beginners gain a deeper understanding of how to articulate their vision effectively. The book also includes an exhaustive list of resources, making it an invaluable companion for anyone serious about producing documentaries with integrity and impact.
- Comprehensive coverage: Guides you through every stage of the documentary process, from concept to editing.
- Revised for modern filmmaking: Updated to reflect current industry standards and technologies.
- Ethical focus: Explores the importance of authenticity, honesty, and responsible storytelling.
- Practical insights: Offers actionable advice on budgeting, crew management, and technical execution.
- Complex for novices: The detailed content may overwhelm those new to documentary filmmaking.
- Outdated references: Some resources might not be as current as other guides released in recent years.
- Lengthy format: A 464-page book may require meaningful time investment for thorough comprehension.
Specification | Detail |
---|---|
Publisher | Holt Paperbacks |
Publication Date | December 10, 2007 |
Edition | Second Edition, Revised & Expanded |
Language | English |
Print Length | 464 pages |
ISBN-10 | 080508181X |
ISBN-13 | 978-0805081817 |
Item Weight | 2.31 pounds |
Dimensions | 6.2 x 1.2 x 9.2 inches |
Bettie page Reveals All [Blu-ray]
Discover the captivating story of Bettie Page, a figure whose audacious presence redefined feminine beauty and sexuality in the 1950s. This documentary, crafted by acclaimed director Mark Mori, offers a deeply personal narrative through Bettie's own words, gathered from audio interviews conducted just years before her passing. With a candid, sharp-edged perspective, she shares raw anecdotes about her rise from a working-class upbringing to becoming a global icon, navigating fame, passion, and personal struggles with unapologetic honesty. The film blends striking visuals, rare archival footage, and intimate interviews to create a seamless portrait of a woman who challenged societal norms and inspired future generations of artists and activists. Whether you're drawn to her bold aesthetics or her complex journey,this film provides a fresh,humanizing lens on a figure often reduced to myth.
Immersive in both content and presentation, the documentary unfolds as a rich tapestry of Bettie's life-her marriages, her transformative spiritual path, and her later return to public attention, unaware of her cult status.The inclusion of vintage photographs, provocative movie clips, and unique archival material ensures a visually dynamic experience that complements her story. With a runtime of just over an hour, it's a concise yet impactful journey that resonates with fans of 1950s culture and modern style icons like Katy Perry and Beyoncé, who have drawn inspiration from her fearless artistry.The film's R rating and director's award recognition add depth, making it a compelling watch for those seeking a nuanced exploration of beauty, power, and legacy.
- Authentic first-person narration from Bettie's own interviews
- Exclusive archival content and rare photographs
- Insightful exploration of 1950s culture and its modern influence
- high-quality production with blu-ray and NTSC formats
- Rich historical context and personal anecdotes
Cons:
- MPAA R rating may limit accessibility for some viewers
- Runtime is relatively short for a biography-centric documentary
- Focus on Bettie's personal struggles may not appeal to all audiences
Feature | Detail |
---|---|
Director | Mark Mori |
Release Date | April 22, 2014 |
Runtime | 1 hour 41 minutes |
MPAA Rating | R (Restricted) |
Format | Blu-ray, NTSC |
Studio | Music Box Films |
Achieve New Heights

The War - A Film By Ken Burns and Lynn Novick
A comprehensive, multi-part documentary that meticulously explores the American Civil War through archival footage, personal stories, and historical context, offering a nuanced perspective on its legacy and impact.

Making Documentary Films and Videos: A Practical Guide to Planning, Filming, and Editing Documentaries
A hands-on resource for aspiring filmmakers, detailing the technical and creative processes of documentary production, from conceptualization to final edits.
![Bettie Page Reveals All [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/911XPrOP9cL._SL1500_.jpg)
Bettie Page Reveals All [Blu-ray]
Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Mark Mori's intimate documentary, which uncovers Bettie Page's life story through her own words, rare photos, and archival material, redefining her as a cultural icon and trailblazer for the sexual revolution.
![Bettie Page Reveals All [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91v2H7s8EAL._SL1500_.jpg)
Bettie Page Reveals All [Blu-ray]
Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Mark Mori's intimate documentary,which uncovers Bettie Page's life story through her own words,rare photos,and archival material,redefining her as a cultural icon and trailblazer for the sexual revolution.