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The Plow That Broke the Plains is a curious piece of documentary filmmaking from Pare Lorentz, released in '36. It's not just a straightforward recounting of the Dust Bowl. There's this palpable sense of urgency throughout, almost a haunting quality to the visuals. The way Lorentz captures the stark beauty of the Great Plains juxtaposed with the devastation caused by reckless farming creates a real emotional weight. The pacing feels methodical, almost poetic at times, which allows the gravity of the subject to sink in. The music, composed by Virgil Thomson, complements the imagery beautifully, enhancing that somber yet reflective tone. It’s a fascinating exploration of environmental mismanagement and human impact, making it distinct in the landscape of documentary cinema.
Documentary about the Dust Bowl phenomenonExplores themes of environmental impactFeatures original score by Virgil Thomson
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