Laura Dunn's "The Unforeseen"

Image Credit: Laura Dunn

Laura Dunn's documentary, "The Unforeseen" explores the effects of developing Austin, Texas on both society and nature itself. I enjoyed this movie in its use of charts, graphics, interviews, and live footage. Maybe Al Gore even could take a note from Dunn...

I noticed Dunn appealing to the audience's emotions quite often. Her inclusion of Robert Redford (which was probably an ethos establishing move as well) and his reminiscing of how he learned to swim in Barton Springs is likely to evoke feelings of nostalgia in the audience. Her incorporating clips of the kid in the flannel shirt not wanting development to occur probably touched the audience's hearts. In addition, the beautiful color still shots and video footage of nature likely drew the audience away from favoring urban development because the beauty of nature should be preserved.

I particularly liked seeing the shots of Austin before all of the development occurred. It was interesting comparing the past to now. Maybe I was so drawn to this movie because it is about a city that I love and live in? Overall, props to Laura Dunn on this one.