The American Buffalo (A Film by Ken Burns) - Definitive Documentary

In this review of The American Buffalo, Ken Burns' two-disc documentary is recommended for viewers who want a measured, historically grounded account of the near extinction and recovery of the American bison. The film's single biggest reason to buy is its careful, narrative-driven examination of how 19th century slaughter and policy devastated both buffalo populations and indigenous ways of life, paired with a clear account of later conservation efforts. At roughly four hours of runtime across two discs, this edition balances depth and accessibility for history buffs and documentary viewers.

Key Features

• Comprehensive narrative: The film traces the bison's decline and recovery with clear chronology and context, helping viewers understand the ecological and cultural consequences.
• Historical accuracy: Detailed research and thoughtful presentation make the documentary a reliable source on 19th century policy and its impact on American Indians and plains wildlife.
• Runtime and format: Four hours on two discs provides ample coverage without feeling rushed, allowing for careful treatment of complex topics.
• Widescreen presentation: The widescreen transfer preserves landscapes and archival images in a format suited to modern TVs.
• English soundtrack and extras: An English soundtrack and a bonus short documentary called Homecoming add value for viewers seeking additional context.

Who It's For

This documentary is best for history enthusiasts, documentary collectors, and viewers interested in conservation, indigenous history, and the natural history of North America. The measured storytelling and archival focus suit viewers who prefer educational documentaries over sensationalized accounts.

Those seeking a brief overview or a fast-paced film may want a shorter program; similarly, viewers looking for dramatized fiction should look elsewhere, as this work emphasizes documentary storytelling and historical record rather than dramatized reenactment.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong storytelling and narration that make complex historical events accessible.
• High documentary quality with careful attention to historical accuracy regarding American Indians and the buffalo.
• Includes a bonus documentary, Homecoming, which expands the film's perspective on recovery and conservation.

Cons

• The four-hour length demands a significant time commitment and may feel long to casual viewers.
• As a documentary, it prioritizes factual depth over dramatized pacing, which may not suit viewers who prefer fiction-style storytelling.

Specifications

Title	The American Buffalo (A Film by Ken Burns)
Format	DVD, two discs
Runtime	Approximately 4 hrs
Aspect Ratio	Widescreen
Soundtrack	English
Extras	Includes bonus documentary Homecoming

Our Verdict

The American Buffalo is a thoughtfully produced documentary that delivers strong informational value for anyone interested in American environmental and indigenous history; its length and emphasis on archival evidence make it a good purchase for learners and collectors seeking a substantive account of bison decline and recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this documentary?
The film runs about four hours across two discs.

Is there an English soundtrack?
Yes, the DVD lists an English soundtrack.

Does this edition include any extras?
Yes, it includes a bonus short documentary titled Homecoming.