The Electric Valley

This is a compilation of various film footage, some of which were from prior TVA documentary films. What sets this apart from many is the emphasis of the relationship between the internal policies of the TVA and the resultant ebb and flow of its popularity, political support, and self-image. In this regard, it is an interesting film to those that study the various forms that TVA has taken between the New Deal beginnings, and the relatively recent foray into nuclear power.

Do not expect excellence in the quality of the film, or even the audio. What you can expect is an uncharacteristic truthfullness, pro and con, with regard to TVA. Too often this type of film either glorifies or demonizes, neither of which is particularly honest. "The River" painted a far too positive picture, even though at the time of it's production, it is understandable. "The Wild River" attempted to show attempts by TVA to humanely displace land owners. This is somewhat true, but not always. The Electric Valley shows the other side of that story as well.