Energy: A National Issue

About This Movie

Energy: A National Issue is this unique animated documentary that dives into America's relationship with oil in the late 70s. There's a sort of grim urgency in its tone, a reflection of the energy crises of that era. The animation style has this hand-drawn, almost rough quality that gives it character—definitely not the polished look you see today. It takes its time, pacing out the information in a way that feels almost meditative. The themes are heavy, tackling environmental and economic concerns that resonate even now, and the way it humanizes the issue adds depth. While the director remains unknown, the film's distinct visual storytelling makes it stand out in educational animation.

This film has had a somewhat limited release over the years, primarily found on VHS and rare screenings, which adds to its collector allure. There’s a growing interest in educational animations from this time, and copies in good condition can be quite hard to find. It’s not just a piece of animation history, but also a cultural artifact reflecting the energy debates of its time, making it more significant for those interested in environmental issues or animation as a medium for social commentary.