Ep 4. Dark Circle

In the show POV season 2 episode 4, titled "Dark Circle," viewers are taken on a journey through the history of the nuclear industry and its impact on American society. Through a mix of archival footage and interviews with civilians, activists, and government officials, the documentary presents a sobering look at the government's role in exposing Americans to dangerous levels of radiation during the Cold War.

Narrated by actress Roscoe Lee Browne, the episode begins by tracing the development of the atomic bomb during World War II and the subsequent arms race with the Soviet Union. This context sets the stage for the government's decision to conduct a series of nuclear tests in the Nevada desert during the 1950s. The documentary shows how these tests affected nearby residents, many of whom were not informed of the dangers they faced.

For example, a young woman recalls watching the mushroom clouds from the tests from her home in Utah and being told by authorities that the explosions were "harmless." Later, she would learn that her thyroid had been damaged by radioactive fallout from the tests. A man who grew up in Nevada similarly tells of playing in the radioactive dust and later being diagnosed with cancer.

As the documentary progresses, it becomes clear that the risks of radiation were well-known to government officials at the time. In fact, the Atomic Energy Commission conducted its own studies on the effects of nuclear fallout but kept this information from the public. The documentary also explores the government's attempts to downplay the risks of radiation exposure and discredit those who spoke out against it. One official is shown telling a reporter that there is "no evidence" of any increase in cancer rates near the test site, despite internal memos that suggest otherwise.

The documentary shifts focus in its second half to examine the growing anti-nuclear movement of the 1960s and 70s. Activists, including members of the Women's Strike for Peace and the Clamshell Alliance, staged protests and civil disobedience actions at nuclear power plants around the country. The documentary shows how these groups faced scrutiny from the federal government, including being declared "subversive" by the FBI.

Despite this opposition, the anti-nuclear movement successfully lobbied for increased regulation of the nuclear industry and helped build public awareness of the dangers of radiation. The documentary ends on a hopeful note, with former activists reflecting on the progress made since the 1970s. However, it reminds viewers that the legacy of nuclear testing and power is far from over, as plants continue to operate and the threat of nuclear war remains.

Overall, "Dark Circle" is a powerful documentary that sheds light on a little-known aspect of American history. Its combination of personal stories and historical context paints a vivid picture of the human toll of the nuclear arms race and the struggle for accountability and change.