The Nuclear Comeback

On 26 April 1986 a reactor in the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine exploded and Europe was showered with radiation. The disaster heightened the global debate about the safety of nuclear power, and strengthened the anti-nuclear movement. Fast forward two decades, and the existential threat of climate change means nuclear power is being reevaluated as an energy alternative. Justin Pemberton's award-winning documentary examined the pros and cons. In this excerpt he and cameraman DJ Stipsen visit the ghost city of Pripyat, and enter the radioactive heart of the patched up Chernobyl power plant.

Now safety comes first but in 1986 the production of electricity was the first priority.

– Shift Manager Sergey Usachov talks about the legacy of the Chernobyl disaster

Key Cast & Crew

Jason Smith

Composer

Bella Erikson

Editor

DJ Stipsen

Cinematographer

Justin Pemberton

Director, Producer

Megan Jones

Producer, Research

Anika Moa

Composer