America's Atomic Bomb Tests #3: At Ground Zero

Starring:America's Atomic Bomb Tests
Studio: Image Entertainment
Product Type: DVD

Editorial Review:
Amazon.com
At Ground Zero traces the story of the atomic bomb tests in the Southwest when entire communities were built to be leveled by the blast. Over the course of 11 detonations, tanks, foxholes, field hospitals, supply equipment, and structures were subjected to the bomb. Also, however, houses were erected complete with appliances, furnishings, carpeting, food, gas, and utilities. Neat tract-home bungalows and two-story Cape Cods had families of fully clothed mannequins inside watching television or having dinner, waiting to be mangled by the bomb. Sedans sat in the driveways, "loaned" by dealers (did they want them back afterwards?). Outside stood rows of mannequins wearing suits and dresses, mounted on stands, staring serenely toward oblivion. The overall effect is surreal, grotesque, and oddly fascinating. The heroic music and dry narration throughout are reminiscent of a Coronet Films documentary; one can almost hear the dry whir of a l6mm projector in a stuffy classroom. The last segment of the tape is a film meant for civilians, stressing the importance of Civil Defense preparedness. It's a snapshot of a fearful time and a reminder that the Fabulous '50s weren't all Elvis and sock hops. --Jerry Renshaw
Description
Full photographic coverage of the only tests ever conducted of the effects of a nuclear bomb on a typical American community. The nuclear bomb was brought to 'America's doorstep' during an unusual series of nuclear tests conducted in the Nevada desert in the 1950s. "At Ground Zero" contains the first ever compilation of the full length official documentaries that chronicle the effects of these tests as the full fury of a nuclear bomb is demonstrated on the typical American home.

America's Atomic Bomb Tests - The Collection
Average customer rating:

Very technical, but still very interesting

Okay, but VERY techincal

Historically Important Technical Documentaries

America's Atomic Bomb Tests - The Collection
Starring: Americas Atomic Bomb Tests
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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Similar Items:

The Atomic Bomb Collection

The Atomic Cafe

Trinity & Beyond - The Atomic Bomb Movie

The Day After Trinity

Atomic Journeys - Welcome to Ground Zero

ASIN: B0009HLCLK
Release Date: 2005-07-19

Description

Operation Tumbler Snapper (47 min) - Despite its effectiveness in World War II, little was actually known about an A-bomb's power. What ships could survive a blast and what ships couldn't? Just how powerful was the shock wave? These are the tests that provided the answers that today are the core of America's nuclear weapons knowledge. Formerly classified material documents Operation Tumbler Snapper, which detonated small yield atomic weapons to determine their effectiveness on troops, animals and buildings. At Ground Zero (74 Min) - Full photographic coverage of the only tests ever conducted of the effects of a nuclear bomb on a typical American community. The nuclear bomb was brought to "America's doorstep" during an unusual series of nuclear tests conducted in the Nevada desert in the 1950s. At Ground Zero contains the first-ever compilation of the full-length official documentaries that chronicle the effects of these tests as the full fury of a nuclear bomb is demonstrated on the typical American home. Operation Hardtack (90 min) - A priceless history of some of the most unusual nuclear weapons tests ever. Sixty two nuclear bombs were detonated as part of the Operation Hardtack series of nuclear tests. One of the few operations ever to be conducted at both the Pacific Proving Grounds and the Nevada Test Site, Hardtack combined balloon, surface, barge, underwater, underground, tower and missile shots.

Customer Reviews:

Very technical, but still very interesting.......2007-03-06

This DVD is a great complement to the DVD's offered by VCE(Trinity and Beyond, Nukes in Space, etc). By itself, it is a highly technical look at the process of testing materials, military equipment, and building materials during three atomic test series covered on the DVD set. The quality of the film varies between the three discs. The last Civil Defense video on Disc 2 suffers a lot of audio warble, unfortunately. But, it is nice to see these important historical documents preserved in a digital format.

I've owned Trinity and Beyond for several years, and I really enjoy the way it is presented. But, it has to cover so many tests in a short amount of time that it skims over a lot of information about testing procedures, etc. You begin to get the impression that the military was doing these tests for their own amusement. After watching this DVD, I have a much better understanding of the entire process. It's easy to see why the military was eager to do so many tests in the early days of the atomic weapons program. The science of the atomic bomb was a moving target, and this DVD outlines the research they made.

Though I would never like to see anyone use atomic weapons ever again, their sheer power is fascinating, beautiful, and frightening at the same time. If you are interested in the science of atomic testing, you should really take a look at this set.

Okay, but VERY techincal.......2006-02-09

If you are looking for video of actual bomb tests, this video is NOT for you. It is basically actual D.O.D reels declassified. It shows many in-depth testing measuring blast waves, heat etc. Good if you are of the sceintific nature, but gets a little boring if you are just looking for some 'action'.

Historically Important Technical Documentaries .......2005-10-01

I bought this collection at the same time I bought the "Atomic Bomb Collection". I found these two packages to be very complimentary. While the "Atomic Bomb Collection" contained documentaries focusing on nuclear weapons development and testing that were intended for general audiences (very good, by the way), this collection contains documentaries prepared by the US government as technical briefings for military and other government personnel. They provide a lot of interesting information, although it is likely to be a little more technical than some may prefer. But anyone with a high school level understanding of science can easily follow what's presented.

One will learn a lot about nuclear weapons and their effects from these films. Personally, I found them fascinating, and I'm sure I will watch them again to improve my understanding and address new questions that may arise in my mind. For those interested in science, Cold war history, or technological development, I recommend these films highly.

p.s.: The documentaries are from the late 50's, and they are presented in the style that was common in those days. That, in and of itself, is an interesting look back for the historian.

America's Atomic Bomb Tests: Operation Tumbler Snapper

Average customer rating:

Disappointing
Second worst DVD I have ever seen.
Of historical interest - original training films.
Typical military video but full of cool information!!
Really Bad

America's Atomic Bomb Tests: Operation Tumbler Snapper
Starring: America's Atomic Bomb Tests
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

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America's Atomic Bomb Tests #2: Operation Hardtack
Nuclear Rescue 911 - Broken Arrows & Incidents
History of Nuclear Weapons - The Ultimate Weapons (2-DVD Set)
History of Nuclear Defense - Surviving Atomic Attack (2-DVD Set)
The Day After Trinity

ASIN: 6305078874
Release Date: 1998-04-15

Amazon.com

In the years after World War II, American scientists and military officials went on a binge of nuclear-bomb tests in the Southwest; this DVD is a compilation of documentary footage that was intended for internal use and was declassified in 1997. In this series of tests in the Nevada desert, eight bombs were detonated, and the effects of the blasts were studied, using obsolete WWII aircraft, trees, jeeps, building materials, military equipment, and small shacks as subjects. Troops also witnessed the explosions from trenches at various distances from ground zero. The narrator notes the soldiers' fears about the bomb's effects: "Some expected to grow and grow for hours after the blast" (shades of The Amazing Colossal Man). Another chilling note comes from the remark, "From a military standpoint, the blasts over Japan seemed to be pretty effective." As a historical document, this DVD is somewhat marred by the fact that the original narration was replaced and low-budget synthesizer music added. However, it still packs a considerable punch, especially in light of the fact that many American GIs who were on such operations died of radiation-related diseases in ensuing years. Considering the horror of nuclear destruction, it's very jarring to hear something as ghastly as the atomic bomb reduced to cold mathematics and science. There was so much we didn't know in 1954, and the bomb tests, for better or worse, helped to broaden that knowledge. --Jerry Renshaw

Description

Despite its effectiveness in the war, little was actually known about an A-bomb's power. What ships could survive a blast and what ships couldn't? Just how powerful was the shock wave? These are the tests that provided the answers that today are the core of America's nuclear weapon's knowledge. Formerly classified material documents Operation Tumbler Snapper, which detonated small yield atomic weapons to determine their effectiveness on troops, animals and buildings.

Customer Reviews:

Disappointing.......2002-07-17

I expected more of this. It was more like a 50s documentary than a PBS / Discovery of the 90s, which is what I expected.

Second worst DVD I have ever seen........2001-05-12

If you are wondering, the worst DVD I've seen is "The Ultimate Space Experience." This movie is still pretty bad though. I bought it invisioning a lot of big atomic bomb explosions. How could I be more wrong. One. Only one atomic bomb explosion happened during the entire flick. This DVD would only be useful for some kind of research paper, or maybe skeet shooting, not that I've ever tried that. Anyway, if you are planning on buying this, think twice, it's no good.

Unlike the Ultimate Space Experience, I give this a one star rating, as opposed to zero. Screw Flanders. End.

Of historical interest - original training films........1999-09-04

This is not a "Produced" documentary for consumers. The film "Trinity and Beyond" is recommended for that purpose. These are original military films produced by the armed forces for internal use, documenting the effects and deployment of nuclear weapons. They should be viewed as such, as a historical relic of a terrifying time in our past. The quality is that of a typical 16mm film, and some show significant wear. This is to be expected, given their origin. If you have an interest in this aspect of our cold war history, these authentic films are for you.

Typical military video but full of cool information!!.......1999-08-23

This video is a good example of a DOD or military documentary, a bit on the dull side but chock full of interesting information. If you plan on only buying one video about Nuclear Weapons then "Trinity and Beyond" is the one of choice. However, this video fills in many holes that Trinity leaves untouched because it talks to a different audience. Not a great video but one that is a good addition to your nuke collection.

Really Bad.......1999-06-13

A big disappointment.

The images are not very exciting

Writing is horrible, Narration will put you to sleep, Picture quality stinks

Amazon.com

At Ground Zero traces the story of the atomic bomb tests in the Southwest when entire communities were built to be leveled by the blast. Over the course of 11 detonations, tanks, foxholes, field hospitals, supply equipment, and structures were subjected to the bomb. Also, however, houses were erected complete with appliances, furnishings, carpeting, food, gas, and utilities. Neat tract-home bungalows and two-story Cape Cods had families of fully clothed mannequins inside watching television or having dinner, waiting to be mangled by the bomb. Sedans sat in the driveways, "loaned" by dealers (did they want them back afterwards?). Outside stood rows of mannequins wearing suits and dresses, mounted on stands, staring serenely toward oblivion. The overall effect is surreal, grotesque, and oddly fascinating. The heroic music and dry narration throughout are reminiscent of a Coronet Films documentary; one can almost hear the dry whir of a l6mm projector in a stuffy classroom. The last segment of the tape is a film meant for civilians, stressing the importance of Civil Defense preparedness. It's a snapshot of a fearful time and a reminder that the Fabulous '50s weren't all Elvis and sock hops. --Jerry Renshaw

Description

Full photographic coverage of the only tests ever conducted of the effects of a nuclear bomb on a typical American community. The nuclear bomb was brought to 'America's doorstep' during an unusual series of nuclear tests conducted in the Nevada desert in the 1950s. "At Ground Zero" contains the first ever compilation of the full length official documentaries that chronicle the effects of these tests as the full fury of a nuclear bomb is demonstrated on the typical American home.

Customer Reviews:

Good historical footage........2003-06-19

If you are looking for a well polished documentary, Trinity & Beyond is the best bet. This is a collection are old Army films, straight on to the DVD. Personally, I love these for sentimental reasons, and for historical interest. I would not want them altered in any way, and was very pleased with this purchase.

An excellent preservation of history.......2002-02-20

What this tape consists of is repackaged once-classified films. These films were used for training and lectures for affected personnel much as we currently use video tapes today. Because not all of the 'sanitized' films were declassified, there are gaps in the sound and visuals.

If you are interested in nuclear weapons and their effects, I recommend this series ...

Quite unspectacular.......2001-01-30

Dry diagrams and commentary, typical army instruction film. Interesting to historians, not to me.

amazing forgotten pieces of history.......1999-11-08

I've collected all of these, as well as "Atomic Cafe", and "Trinity & beyond"(which is terrific). "At Ground Zero" is a collection of 4 seperate films, all shot at the Nevada test site, just outside Las Vegas. Two of the films cover the same test, from different perspectives. One produced for the public and one produced just for the government.

Probably the best of the 3 videos in this series..........1999-11-07

This video is from original military films produced in the 1950's and 1960's by the Civil Defense and at Lookout Mountain Air Force film studio in Hollywood, CA. The "Operation CUE" section is particularly interesting; it gives a very telling view of our mindset during the 1950's regarding the survivability of a nuclear attack. A "typical housewife" guides us through the famous nuke test that was the first to be televised live. She shows us how a typical family and home would fare in an attack. It was meant to give confidence, but the disclamer tagged to the end of the film says, to paraphrase...these results are for a 20 KILOTON nuclear blast, an actual attack would probably use a multi MEGATON device...your milage may vary... Anyway, you get the idea. I've actually had fun running this section at parties. If you want a factual and more entertaining (in the normal sense) video on this topic, get "Trinity and Beyond", but if your interest goes deeper, I recommend these videos, especially volume #3.

America's Atomic Bomb Tests #2: Operation Hardtack

Average customer rating:

Good historical footage.
An excellent preservation of history
Quite unspectacular
amazing forgotten pieces of history
Probably the best of the 3 videos in this series...

America's Atomic Bomb Tests #2: Operation Hardtack
Starring: America's Atomic Bomb Tests
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

General | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

Politics | Documentary | Genres | DVD | Video

Drama | Military & War | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( A ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

America's Atomic Bomb Tests: Operation Tumbler Snapper
America's Atomic Bomb Tests - The Collection
History of Nuclear Weapons - The Ultimate Weapons (2-DVD Set)
Nuclear Rescue 911 - Broken Arrows & Incidents
The Day After Trinity

ASIN: B00000JMOR
Release Date: 1999-08-24

Amazon.com

Volume 2 of the America's Atomic Bomb Test series covers Operation Hardtack, in which bombs were detonated below ground, underwater, and in the atmosphere to study their effects. Airborne planes were flown near the explosion to gauge how they handled the shock wave, and destroyers and barges were loaded with instruments and used as target ships in the underwater tests. This DVD deals mainly with methodology and scientific results and uses crude animation to illustrate much of the information. Of the three DVDs in the series, Volume 2 is the dullest. Its narration is bone-dry and couched in technical language best appreciated (or even understood) by scientists and engineers. --Jerry Renshaw

Description

A priceless history of some of the most unusual nuclear weapons tests ever. Sixty two nuclear bombs were detonated as part of the Operation Hardtack series of nuclear tests. One of the few operations ever to be conducted at both the Pacific Proving Grounds and the Nevada Test Site, Hardtack combined balloon shots, surface shots, barge shots, underwater shots, underground shots, tower shots and missile shots.

Customer Reviews:

Good historical footage........2003-06-19

An excellent preservation of history.......2002-02-20

If you are interested in nuclear weapons and their effects, I recommend this series ...

Quite unspectacular.......2001-01-30

Dry diagrams and commentary, typical army instruction film. Interesting to historians, not to me.

amazing forgotten pieces of history.......1999-11-08

Probably the best of the 3 videos in this series..........1999-11-07

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