National Geographic - Lost Subs
National Geographic's compulsively watchableLost Subs: Disaster at Seapresents a gripping look at real-life submarine disasters. Four different undersea disasters are examined, from the first tiny problem to the final, tense rescue efforts. A blend of computer animation, contemporary news footage, and stock footage keeps the action moving and gives the viewer an effortless sense of the mechanics involved. In addition to the real-life drama,Lost Subshas a true geek's appreciation for the incredible technology of a sub--at one point a sailor shows that the sonar is sensitive enough to pick up the sound of shrimp feeding. The events covered are the stuff of action movies--the events of theK-19disaster were made into a Harrison Ford thriller of the same name--butLost Subsnever loses sight of the fact that there are real people involved. Some of the most wrenching moments follow the families of the crew of theKurskscreaming for action and information as rescue efforts stall.Lost Subsis beautifully produced, sensitively handled, and impossible to stop watching once you've started.--Ali Davis