Petropolis

The Athabasca tar sands in Alberta are an oil reserve the size of England. Extracting crude oil that lies beneath the unspoiled wilderness requires a massive industrialized effort, effecting catastrophic damages on land, air, water, and climate. Peter Mettler shows us this extraordinary view from above, filming primarily from a helicopter to capture this breathtaking, unparalleled view of the world's largest industrial, capital and energy project. In a hypnotic flight of image and sound, Mettler explores the clash between industry and earth, and beholds the barren wasteland that is left behind.

A calm and impressive film, well complemented by bonus material (interviews with affected people). We really liked the authentic and touching interview with a Greenpeace campaign leader from Canada.

… scary, nightmarish and oddly beautiful. – Financial Times

Breathtaking. – The Guardian

The film doesn't use words to make its potent point: Only an aerial view that leaves one staggered and likely ashamed. – Kevin Williamson, Toronto Sun

Links & documents

• tarsandswatch.org
• Director Peter Mettler

Attachements

• Filmheft (EN)

• This film can be watched for free at the top.

You can also view it for a fee at:

• iTunes