This short black-and-white film shows eerie scenes of a downtown without people. The effect is disturbing. The camera shoots familiar urban scenes, without a soul in sight: streets empty, buildings empty, yet everywhere there is evidence of recent life and activity. At the end of the film we learn what has happened.
Ages 14 to 17
History - World History
Science - Physical Science
Social Studies - Contemporary Issues
Play the film until just before the truth is revealed. Ask them to write what they believe is going on in the city and compare. After watching the rest of the film, discuss what really happened. Bring up examples of this and other kinds of world disasters. What is the effect on survivors? on society? culture? Make connections to popular films on Armageddon (the end of the world") and discuss how to avoid future disasters.