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Origins of the Earth (5)
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Continental DriftCo Hoedeman 1968 9 minAnimated film explains the theory that Earth's land areas are fluid and that, in the process of a slow, rolling, boiling motion, one part of the Earth might well be engulfed and then rise again some distance away, much the same as froth on a kettle of soup. From this theory comes the idea that continents were formed from one super-continent that broke up, whose pieces sank, and then rose once more, but far apart. Introducing the film is Professor J. Tuzo Wilson, geophysicist, University of Toronto. -
Five Billion YearsJoyce Borenstein 1981 7 minThis superbly animated science film traces the evolution of North America from the Earth's geophysical beginnings, through the genesis of the first living organisms, right up to the arrival of humans. Radiant colors and smooth-flowing animation evoke sizzling lava rivers, oceans bursting with life, and freezing ice ages. The film provides an excellent view of the time frame within which these remarkable events took place and highlights the fact that, relatively speaking, we are newcomers to Planet Earth.
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Face of the EarthBill Mason 1975 17 minFace of the Earth explores the origin of our planet's outer layer, the why-and-how of its mobility. Through the use of well-designed diagrams, the earth's cyclical activity is clearly explained. Some unusual footage on volcanoes gives added punch to an already absorbing subject.
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OneDiego Stoliar 2007 1 minThis minimalist piece of animation explores the origin of life.
Produced as part of the fourth edition of the NFB’s Hothouse apprenticeship. -
Origin of Life on EarthKenneth Horn 1972 3 minThis short animated film presents the theory of the origin of the Earth and its transformation into a life-supporting planet. The evolution of the first simple life forms is illustrated in bright colours, and the seminal role of photosynthesis in nourishing and supporting all life on earth is highlighted.
