Being such a major contributor to the Canadian economy, the benefits of the industry a far spread, creating high-paying jobs for large portions of the Canadian population. However, the Environmental impacts of development and growth are instantly obvious and far reaching, causing many to view the Oil Sands as an ecological disaster, whilst the increasing health impacts on many residents that live in the surrounding areas are hard to ignore.
We interviewed the same participants over a 10 year period, to truly explore how much change really happens in a situation like this, despite promises made, and indeed whether or not opinions and beliefs can change too, and by using the title of Curse or Blessing, this project aims to explore both sides of this argument, and allow the audience to draw their own conclusions about whether or not the Oil Sands are in fact a Curse or a Blessing.
Showcased as part of the COP26 summit in 2021, we made 2 short films under each title designed to be viewed as companion films, as part of an exhibition title Bruised Lands, that also included the Mountaintop Removal that happens in Appalachia.
Oil Sands: Curse
Oil Sands: Blessing
MY ROLE:
Director, Cinematographer, Editor
EQUIPMENT:
Canon 5D Mrk2, Fuji XT-3, Premiere Pro, After Effects
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