Greensburg

As far as environmentally conscious, pedantic, reality-based programming goes, Greensburg is the cream of the crop, examining issues far beyond programs of a similar nature in its eco-friendly rebuilding of Greensburg, Kansas following its destruction from a deadly tornado. Packaged in 100-percent recyclable packaging, the 13-episodes of the Discovery Network program is laid out on four discs with webisode supplements. The series covers everything from the initial destruction of the town to discussions of a fight-or-flight nature to the eventual decision to rebuild the city from the trendy, tourism-friendly perspective of environmental consciousness, as recommended by fancy firms in New York and LA. While the series could easily fall into the trap of showing only those residents jazzed about the development plans, as endless "green" products and building techniques essentially are advertised, it smartly embraces the negative aspects of mass reconstruction, balancing the scales. Much talk of God's influence and the belief that everything happens for a reason gets tiring but more political fare, such as the somewhat totalitarian mode of enforcing this town-wide decision, proves intriguing, even if its glossed over in the end by a well-placed speech about the beauty and unity of the community. For example, some farmers discuss the logic behind some of the green recommendations tossed at them, while another woman details how the city council bought out her beauty salon with the promise to greenify and reopen it only to pull out the mat later, claiming that the chemicals she used would not suit its new incubator location. Trials and tribulations aside, the series is about patience, rebuilding, harmonious living and the future, as outlined by leaders, residents and the youth in an often idealistic, but not entirely nauseating, manner. Viewers who like to see lemonade made when life hands out lemons will be pleased, while others will likely be indifferent.