You knew it was coming. It was only a matter of time. Al Gore is working on a sequel to his 2006 eco-ganda film "An Inconvenient Truth," which will be called "The Path to Survival" and released on April 22, 2008, otherwise known as Earth Day.
Global warming “deniers” may begin thinking of it as “An Inconvenient Truth 2: Non-Electric Boogaloo.”
But based on a September 5 AP article, it's not what you expect. It isn't even a film. It won't even be a hardback. Publisher Rodale Books said it will be released as a paperback original that is “(p)art-scientific manual, part expose, part visionary call for a new planet-wide political movement” and will offer “a visionary blueprint for the changes we should make as a world community.”
Is the lack of plans for a movie further indication that the eco-hysteria surrounding Gore's day-long Live Earth concert raised more apathy and annoyance than awareness? Did the lackluster box-office and disinterest in Leo DeCaprio's “The 11th Hour” have something to do with the decision to not make the movie? It's likely that Gore is testing the water with this book, and if it does well, a movie will follow.
The AP served up Rodale's call to arms without question:
''He (Gore) explains how making bold choices now to protect our environment will also create new jobs, propel sustainable economic improvements, and inspire a new generation to tackle our most challenging issues with moral leadership,'' according to a statement issued Wednesday by Rodale.
''Part scientific manual, part expose, part visionary call for a new planet-wide political movement, the book will appeal to those who were motivated by the call to action of 'An Inconvenient Truth' and who are now ready to fight for the solutions that were considered politically impossible only a short time ago.''
Does that mean Gore will teach “a new generation” to stay green his way, by jetting around the world on private planes, owning big houses, throwing carbon-spewing concerts and eating red meat, which the UN said is a bigger contributor to anthropogenic global warming than SUVs?
Since this is considered a “scientific manual,” I fully expect some schools to follow the model set by “An Inconvenient Truth” and use this as a serious educational resource. Considering the problems that the original had with it's science, that isn't an encouraging thought.
Look for a giant carbon-emitting promotional tour to accompany the release.
*Updated: links added
Contact Lynn at tvisgoodforyou2 at yahoo dot com
