An Inconvenient Truth

Yes, I saw the Al Gore movie, "An Inconvenient Truth". While you get quite the in-depth lesson on global warming, you also get to see a different side of "the man formerly known as the next President of the United States." Rather than the stiff, rigid candidate, this Al Gore is relaxed and easy going. This Al Gore would make a formidable candidate for office.

Politics aside, "An Inconvenient Truth" is informative without getting too heavy on facts. The movie is basically a video of the former VP's lecture that he gives around the world on the issue of global warming, what's causing it, and what we can do about it. Interspersed throughout are brief glimpses into Gore's personal life, giving some insight into why he is so passionate on the topic.

Going in, I didn't realize that 90% of the movie was going to be an actual lecture. That was somewhat of a turnoff, but he does keep the presentation interesting. At the same time, there are bits and pieces that felt more like a campaign ad than a piece of the movie. Whether he's trying to reinvent himself or if he's simply found a different venue to get his point across is yet to be seen. There are many pieces to the story that are hard to argue with, but other parts that didn't seem quite balanced. For example, I am certain there are more reasons than global warming that are causing a decrease in American automobile sales.

All in all, fans of documentaries will find "An Inconvenient Truth" of interest. Fans of Al Gore, and trust me when I say the majority of the theater I was in were, will also enjoy the occasional Bush-bash. Fortunately, those were few, giving his cause more legitimacy and leaving you with much to think about. I give it a B-.

"An Inconvenient Truth" is rated PG with a running time of 100 minutes.