Watch Blood On The Mountain

Blood On The Mountain is a documentary film released in 2016 that explores the history of coal mining in West Virginia, United States. Directed by Mari-Lynn Evans and Jordan Freeman, the film offers a gripping account of the devastating effects of mountaintop removal mining on the Appalachian region and its people. The documentary starts with a brief introduction to the lush beauty and rich history of the Appalachian mountains. The filmmakers then take the viewers on a journey through the history of coal mining in West Virginia, which has played a central role in the region's economy and culture for more than a century. The film paints a vivid picture of the harsh conditions that the miners and their families faced during the early days of coal mining, including long hours, dangerous working conditions, and poor wages.

However, the tone of the film quickly shifts as it delves into the modern-day mining industry that has become more focused on profits than the wellbeing of the miners and the environment. The filmmakers highlight the problem of mountaintop removal, a practice in which the top of a mountain is blown off to reach the coal seams underneath, causing massive damage to the surrounding ecosystem, water sources, and people's health.

As the documentary progresses, it becomes clear that the coal mining companies have a stranglehold on the economy, politics, and law enforcement in West Virginia, making it almost impossible for the local communities to fight back against the devastating effects of mining. The film shows how the coal industry has waged a relentless campaign of misinformation, intimidation, and legal battles to silence activists, environmentalists, and researchers who speak out against the dangers of mining.

Blood On The Mountain also sheds light on the social and cultural effects of mining on the Appalachian communities. The film highlights how the forced relocation of residents and the destruction of their homes and ancestral lands have caused a sense of loss and trauma that is still palpable today. The filmmakers also explore the issue of black lung disease, a fatal respiratory illness that affects thousands of miners and their families, as well as the rampant drug addiction and poverty that have plagued the region for decades.

Overall, Blood On The Mountain is a powerful and poignant documentary that exposes the dark side of the coal mining industry and its impact on West Virginia's people and environment. Through a combination of interviews, archival footage, and stunning cinematography of the Appalachian landscape, the film offers a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant examination of a complex and pressing issue. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in environmental justice, social activism, or the future of the energy industry in America.

In conclusion, Blood On The Mountain is a documentary film that provides a deep exploration into the history of coal mining in West Virginia with its devastating effects on the Appalachian region and its people. The film is a poignant portrayal of how the coal industry has impacted the environment and social and cultural norms in the area. The film is essential viewing for any person who wants to know more about the issues related to coal mining in the US.

Blood On The Mountain is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 33 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 74.