The Green Chain

A great film, especially in today's economic setting. All of the characters are revealing of what is really happening in the world of forestry, how "loving trees" does not necessarily mean that they all must be protected - a very unique movie that examines the industry, and its impact, from a number of perspectives. Although the story is fictional, I found myself totally hooked from the opening scene. I do consider myself to be an environmentalist, and I had never really given enough thought to the reliance that entire towns can have on forestry, how trees are literally the lifeblood for so many small towns. Highly recommended.

More than just a film, this doco within a film does a great job of addressing weighty issues that currently face the logging industry. Illuminating and objective, it even succeeds at being entertaining with a poignant array of true to life characters. It's surprising to see the talent that jumped on board, especially with Playboy model Tricia Helfer who plays the actress looking for a cause. Skillfully gift-wrapped with high production value, writer/director Mark Leiren-Young has succeeded in finding great entertainment value here, and the dialogue is both authentic and emotionally convincing.

While the doco within a film vehicle is nothing new, it's done here in a unique way that has seemingly succeeded in fooling more than a few. If you want a thought provoking film that focuses on environmental issues, you'll find it here.