Educational Documentaries

Released in 2016, "What Lies Upstream" is a gripping documentary that exposes the devastating consequences of corporate negligence and the dangers of lax regulation. The film tells the story of the 2014 West Virginia Elk River chemical spill, which resulted in the contamination of the water supply for over 300,000 Americans with the toxic chemical MCHM. The documentary reveals how Freedom Industries, the company responsible for the spill, used evasive tactics to avoid taking responsibility for the disaster, prioritizing profits over public health and safety. "What Lies Upstream" also highlights the harmful effects of MCHM exposure, including skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and headaches. The film provides a harrowing insight into the long-term health risks of chemical exposure, including liver and kidney damage, and increased risk of cancer. Through interviews with whistleblowers, scientists, and activists, "What Lies Upstream" underscores the urgent need for stronger regulation and greater accountability in protecting public health and the environment.

Published in 2017, "Black Snake Killaz" is a documentary that follows the journey of the Dakota Access Pipeline protesters, particularly the indigenous water protectors, in their attempt to halt the construction and development of the project. The film offers first-hand accounts of the rampant police brutality and suppression tactics used against the peaceful protesters who were risking their lives to protect their only source of fresh drinking water. The documentary sheds light on the environmental and social consequences of the controversial pipeline project and highlights the power of collective action and solidarity in the face of oppression.

Published in 1992 and titled "Fires of Kuwait", this film delves into a chapter of history marked by devastation and resilience, chronicling the aftermath of one of the most dire environmental catastrophes of the late 20th century. As Iraqi forces were expelled from Kuwait by a United States-led coalition, they left behind a scorched earth, setting hundreds of oil wells ablaze in a vindictive farewell. This documentary captures the ensuing inferno with gripping clarity, bringing to light the monumental challenge of extinguishing the fires and mitigating their aftermath. The film is a riveting exploration of the efforts made by independent contractors tasked with taming these man-made volcanoes. Through in-depth accounts, "Fires of Kuwait" unfolds the story of these unsung heroes, whose battle against the relentless fires was as much a fight to protect the environment as it was a race against time.

Released in 1958 and titled, "A Night to Remember", In the chilling darkness of the North Atlantic, this film resurrects the Titanic's tragic saga with a gripping authenticity that haunts the viewer long after the credits roll. Kenneth More, embodying the valor and dignity of Second Officer Charles Herbert Lightoller, leads us through the catastrophic night with a performance that merges the heroic with the human, anchoring the historical epic firmly in reality. This 1958 masterpiece unfolds the Titanic's final hours with a precision that cuts through the icy waters of history, revealing the stark truths beneath. Through meticulously crafted scenes, the film exposes the devastating consequences of human error and nature's might, laying bare the heart-wrenching decisions made as the luxury liner succumbed to the sea. As the film navigates the chaos of the sinking, it pays tribute to the enduring spirit of those who faced unimaginable terror in the heart of the ocean.

Released in 2007, "Body of War" is a powerful and deeply moving documentary that exposes the true cost of war on individuals and society. Co-produced by Phil Donahue and Ellen Spiro, the film tells the story of Tomas Young, a 25-year-old soldier who was left paralyzed after serving in Iraq. Through intimate and candid interviews with Tomas and his family, the documentary provides a harrowing glimpse into the physical, emotional, and psychological tolls of war. "Body of War" also exposes the political and moral implications of the Iraq War, highlighting how a single Congressional vote can have catastrophic consequences for thousands of lives. The film serves as a powerful indictment of the government's actions and raises important questions about the responsibilities of those who hold power. "Body of War" is a poignant and thought-provoking tribute to the courage and sacrifice of veterans and their families, and a call to action for greater accountability and compassion in our society. Rest in Peace Tomas Young Nov 30, 1979 -- Nov 10, 2014

In the heart of a beleaguered Ohio town, "East of East Palestine" unfurls a narrative so intense and evocative it etches the very essence of a catastrophe into the soul of its audience. This 2023 documentary thrusts viewers into the aftermath of the Norfolk Southern train derailment with a raw force that leaves you breathless, weaving through the personal tragedies and collective outrage of East Palestine's forsaken residents. Their stories, told with a palpable intensity, transform the screen into a canvas of human resilience and despair, painting a vivid portrait of a community betrayed. Amidst the chaos and confusion, the film boldly exposes the dark underbelly of a disaster response gone awry—where private police forces stand as silent sentinels of failure, and federal agencies loom as distant, indifferent shadows. "East of East Palestine" is not merely a documentary; it is an emotional odyssey that drags you through the depths of human suffering and the peaks of indefatigable spirit. It serves as a dire warning, a mournful elegy, and a stark reminder of the relentless pursuit of justice in the face of overwhelming odds. This film doesn’t just capture your attention; it seizes your conscience, demanding a reflection on the cost of inaction and the value of community resilience.