Two Square Miles

A documentary by Barbara Ettinger & Sven Huseby

When a proposed multinational coal-fired cement plant threatens to change the character and possibly generate environmental waste to the small city of Hudson, N.Y., its citizens are galvanized into action. Hudson is like many small cities and towns across America; its industries have declined, it needs to adapt, but it wants to maintain its character.

In addition to these concerns, the film also asks how the global economy is affecting our communities. Can a traditional small town main street with mom and pop stores be viable in the 21st century, when big box stores on the outskirts of town compete with local business? How can the community mediate the different interest groups? Can idealistic goals drive real political change?

Two Square Miles is a window onto the rapidly changing fabric of American communities nationwide. It provides a unique opportunity to see up close the workings of local democracy.

52 min. Video or DVD. Sale $295. Rental $85.

".a riveting portrait of a town in turmoil, divided by class and political differences." Peter Biskind, journalist and author
“A fascinating account of a small struggling upstate city’s attempts to survive by reinventing itself in the 21st century.” John Ashbery
"...moving, original and relevant to anyone involved in what it means to live in a community." Robert Downey, director

Film Columbia Festival, 2006
Nantucket Film Festival, 2006
Ojai Film Festival, 2006
Berkshire International Film Festival, 2006
Hearts& Minds Festival, 2006