Shattered Sky

Shattered Sky is an evocative and stirring documentary that originally premiered in 2012. Directed by Steve Dorst and Dan Evans, the film presents a gripping narrative and visual journey primarily exploring the American response to the devastating hole in the ozone layer emerging in the 1980s. It stands as a testament to human capability, demonstrating how we can literally change the course of our planet when unified and spurred into action against a common cause.

The title, Shattered Sky, brings forth a powerful image that blends dramatic urgency and environmental concern. The film begins by establishing the context. In the 1980s, an alarming discovery was made – a hole was forming in our planet's ozone layer, a protective shield that prevents harmful ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from reaching the earth's surface. The hole was expanding at an alarming rate, threatening to precipitate an global environmental catastrophe. The implications of this hole were destructive: increased rates of skin cancer and cataracts in humans and harm to the earth’s fragile ecosystems.

The primary cause of this ozone hole, scientists discovered, were chlorine and bromine released from chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compounds, which were, at the time, commonly used in aerosols and refrigerants. Without their knowledge, people were causing irreparable damage to the environment through everyday usage of these products.

As the narrative unfolds, Shattered Sky captures the tension, conflict, and eventually the unity that emerged from the crisis. The film investigates the science behind the deteriorating ozone layer, the geopolitical and economic implications, the battles within the scientific community, and the resistance from industries vested in CFC production. Amongst fears, doubts, and disagreements, the path to resolution wasn't straightforward or easy.

The film utilizes a blend of archival footage, interviews with key figures involved in the crisis, and narration to tell its story. Through these diverse storytelling mechanisms, the viewer is engaged in a well-rounded exploration of the issue. Scientists, politicians, activists, and industrialists all play their parts in this real-life drama, brought vividly to life through conversations, narrated explanations, and expert testimonies. The approach taken by the directors lends the film a multi-dimensional perspective.

Prominent characters featured in the film include Mario Molina and F. Sherwood Rowland, the chemists who made the initial discovery about CFCs' destructive potential; Susan Solomon, the atmospheric scientist who led expedition to Antarctica to collect vital data; and politicians like Ronald Reagan and George H W Bush, through their roles in dictating America's response.

Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of Shattered Sky is how it maintains a dual focus, using the ozone crisis to draw parallels with the current issue of climate change. The film advocates for action based on scientific evidence and international cooperation, strategic elements that proved successful during the ozone crisis and are much-needed today.

The filmmakers' style is not to instill a sense of fear or doom but to inspire belief in humanity's innovative and cooperative capabilities. The American response to the ozone crisis, against all adversities, stands as a beacon of hope for what might be achieved when it comes to the battle against climate change.

Though the seriousness and gravity of the ozone issue is tangible throughout the film, Shattered Sky also evokes a sense of profound optimism. The film serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when nations unify and focus their resources to solve a global problem.

Beautifully packaged, atmospheric, and compelling in its storytelling, Shattered Sky is a must-watch for those interested in environmental issues, science, politics, and the interplay of these facets within society. It’s an intriguing examination of a historic environmental crisis and a call to action for the present times, urging viewers to reflect on the ways they can contribute to combatting the climate crisis and work towards a sustainable future.