Watch The Atomic States of America

The Atomic States of America is a 2012 documentary film, directed by Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce. The film provides an in-depth look at the nuclear industry in the United States, its history, impact and the various issues surrounding it, including safety concerns, accidents, the waste disposal problem, and others. The film is narrated by actress and environmental activist Michelle Catts, and features interviews with the locals, activists, politicians, industry insiders, and experts in the field. The Atomic States of America is a comprehensive and thought-provoking examination of the nuclear industry that manages to be informative, critical and engaging.

The film begins by providing some historical background of the nuclear industry in the United States, discussing the development of the atomic bomb and the Cold War era which brought about a significant increase in the nuclear power industry. It also discusses the Three Mile Island accident in Pennsylvania on March 28, 1979, which was a significant turning point in the history of the nuclear industry in the US, and the Chernobyl disaster in Ukraine in 1986, one of the worst nuclear accidents in history.

The film also explores the impact of the nuclear industry on local communities, focusing on two specific locations: Oyster Creek, New Jersey, and Vernon, Vermont. The residents in these areas provide firsthand accounts of the consequences of living near nuclear power plants, sharing their concerns about the potential health risks, environmental dangers, and the emotional toll it takes on the people living in these areas.

The film also delves into the issues of nuclear waste disposal, which continue to pose a significant challenge for the nuclear industry. The film identifies the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository in Nevada as one possible solution to this problem, but also acknowledges the fierce opposition it faces from the local residents, environmental activists, and other concerned citizens.

Throughout the film, the directors aim to provide a balanced perspective on the nuclear industry, presenting arguments from both sides of the debate. They showcase interviews with pro-nuclear individuals, politicians, and industry insiders who argue that nuclear power is clean, safe, and necessary for the country's energy needs. On the other hand, they also feature interviews with anti-nuclear activists, environmental experts, and other critics who highlight the risks associated with nuclear power and advocate for renewable energy sources.

The Atomic States of America is a well-crafted and informative documentary that raises vital questions about the risks and benefits of nuclear power. The film highlights the critical importance of public awareness and engagement in shaping the future of the nuclear industry. Overall, The Atomic States of America is an essential watch for anyone interested in learning more about the nuclear industry and its impact on society.

In conclusion, The Atomic States of America is an insightful and engaging documentary that provides a balanced perspective on the nuclear industry in the United States. It manages to be informative without being didactic, and it raises important questions about the risks and benefits of nuclear power. The film is well-researched and thoughtfully crafted, and it is a must-watch for anyone interested in learning more about this complex and controversial topic.

The Atomic States of America is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.