In our day we continue to live under two major threats: climate change and the possibility of nuclear war. Each of these threatens to bring civilization as we know it to an end. We are aware of the effects of climate change when we hear of natural disasters around the globe or when we experience sudden ferocious storms, the like of which we have never known before. But, relatively speaking, climate change is not going to destroy all of us immediately. Nuclear war will.

At times, since the first dropping of the atom bomb on Hiroshima, we have been conscious of the danger of nuclear arms to the world. But most of the time we live as if the bombs were not on high alert. We carry on with our daily round.

The National Film Board of Canada released a new film earlier this year that helps to remind us of the reality of the nuclear age. The Strangest Dream, tells the life story of Joseph Rotblat, one of the scientists who worked on the Manhattan Project which created the first atomic bomb.

When Rotblat realized that the project would be successful and that it would change the nature of human life on this planet, he resigned and left the work before it was finished. He then spent the rest of his life working for peace and for the elimination of nuclear weapons. He was one of the founders of the Pugwash Conferences, directing the annual Pugwash meetings from year to year until his death in 2006. At one point he was awarded the Nobel Peace prize.

This film, which runs for 90 minutes, is one which we should all see. It is available in DVD format from the National Film Board, 150 John Street, Toronto for $22.55 including tax. Telephone: 1-800-267-7710

One commentator writes, "The Strangest Dream demonstrates the renewed threat represented by nuclear weapons, while encouraging hope through the example of morally engaged scientists and citizens".