Watch The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil

The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil, directed by Faith Morgan, is a documentary film that explores how Cuba successfully adapted to a crisis caused by the depletion of resources, specifically oil. Released in 2006, the film features interviews with experts in the field, as well as ordinary Cuban citizens who share their experiences and insights on the subject.

The film begins by providing a brief history of Cuba and its relationship with the United States, including the embargo that has been in place since 1962. The filmmakers then introduce us to the concept of peak oil, the point at which oil production reaches its maximum point and begins to decline. They explain that this phenomenon could have catastrophic consequences for many countries, including the United States, which is heavily reliant on oil.

The filmmakers then take us to Cuba, a country that was already facing a crisis due to the collapse of the Soviet Union, which had been providing the country with oil and other resources. When this supply was cut off in 1991, Cuba was faced with a severe shortage of food and other necessities. However, the Cuban government responded to the crisis with a series of measures that helped the country survive and even thrive in the face of adversity.

The film explores these measures in detail, showing how the Cuban people came together to create a more sustainable way of life. New modes of transportation were developed, such as bicycles and horse-drawn carts, which reduced the country's dependence on oil. Organic farming methods were developed, which not only helped to feed the population but also helped to protect the environment. Community organizations were formed to provide support for those in need.

One of the most powerful aspects of the film is the testimonies of the Cuban people themselves. We hear from farmers, doctors, students, and others who share their stories of how they adapted to the crisis. Many of these people recount difficult times, but they also speak of the solidarity and sense of community that emerged from the crisis. They talk about how they learned to work together and to share resources in a way that had not been possible before.

The film also touches on the political aspects of the crisis. It shows how the Cuban government responded to the crisis with a series of reforms aimed at creating a more sustainable economy. These reforms included decentralizing the economy and allowing for more private enterprise. However, the film also shows that Cuba has been able to maintain its socialist values and that the reforms have not led to a return to capitalism.

Overall, The Power of Community is an inspiring and thought-provoking film that raises important questions about our society's dependence on oil and the need for more sustainable ways of life. The film is well-researched and thoughtfully presented, and it provides a glimpse into a different way of living that could be useful as we face the challenges of the future.

In terms of performances, the film mainly features interviews with experts, academics, and ordinary citizens, rather than professional actors. However, the people who are interviewed are engaging and passionate, and they speak from personal experience, which gives the film a sense of authenticity.

In conclusion, The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil is a must-see film for anyone interested in sustainability, community-building, and social and environmental justice. It provides a hopeful vision of what is possible in the face of crisis and serves as a reminder that we can create a better world if we come together and work towards common goals.