Documentary on Energy and Sustainability

I had a terrific conversation with Scott Peehl just now, a talented young filmmaker who will be helping on the documentary we’ve been discussing. His main point: what makes documentaries “work” is a common point on empathy that the audience develops for a certain character and his quest, into which are plugged all the various pieces of content: interviews, infographics, voice-over B-roll, etc. The story should be long and arduous, with plenty of ups and downs, tragedies and rejection, tenacity and guts.

Scott suggested that the character could be me, given my ongoing quest to elucidate the energy picture, and get society’s wits wrapped around what will be required for a sustainable future — taking on the forces that profit from maintaining the status quo. I’m flattered, but, besides being too self-indulgent, it’s also too weak; I need another big idea. If anyone has a suggestion, please let me know. Thanks.