Watch Company Town

Company Town is a gripping, eye-opening documentary drama that highlights the environmental and social injustices facing people living around the oil and gas industries of the United States. Directed by Natalie Kottke-Masocco and Erica Sardarian, the film focuses on the plight of the residents of the small town of Mossville, Louisiana, which was founded in 1790 by freed slaves.

The inhabitants of Mossville have long been exposed to the toxic by-products of chemical plants operated by the petrochemical company Sasol. In the past decade alone, Sasol has expanded its operations significantly, putting the health and livelihoods of the Mossville residents in serious jeopardy. Company Town is a brave examination of a community that has been robbed of its dignity, resources, and environment by corporate greed.

The film does not only focus on the injustices of Sasol. It explores the entire history of Mossville: the pride and resilience of the community members who, despite living in poverty, are doing their best to overcome the challenges of systemic racism, social injustice, and environmental degradation. It reveals how the lives of these people have been affected in every aspect, from their daily lives, education, personal growth, health and well-being, and their hopes and dreams for the future.

One of the most striking aspects of Company Town is the glimpses the viewer gets of the story behind the people of Mossville. The film serves as a poignant reminder that these people aren't mere numbers, but flesh-and-blood humans with aspirations, fears, and dreams. The filmmakers have left no stone unturned in their quest to highlight the dangers and injustices of Sasol’s operations.

The film has a cast of amazing actors who bring the stories of Mossville to life. David Bouie, who plays an elderly founder of Mossville who refuses to move, is particularly convincing. Cheryl Slavant, who plays Dawn, one of the residents working with the environmental lawyer to make the cost of their human suffering visible, is also superb. Another standout performance is given by Wilma Subra, a fearless environmentalist and recipient of the Goldman Environmental Prize, who talks about the history of the Mossville community and the dangers of Sasol's operation.

It is evident that the filmmakers have researched this topic in-depth. With authentic dialogue, heart-wrenching scenes, and poignant interviews, the viewer can learn more about the various issues facing communities like Mossville. The film cuts across generations, and its examination of systemic racism and environmental pollution is timely and courageous.

The film's cinematography deserves special mention. The visuals of the area are breathtaking, and the camera work is exceptional. The varying shots convey a sense of the community, whether it's the joyful scenes of children playing in the tranquil bayou or the devastating perspectives of the Mossville residents on the front porch of their shuttered homes. The beauty of the area is almost in direct contrast to the horror of the pollution.

Overall, Company Town is a vital examination of the social and environmental injustices facing marginalized communities. It's an affecting piece of cinema that will leave a lasting impression on viewers. It's a timely piece of storytelling that deserves to be appreciated by a large audience. The movie urges us all to ask questions about our world and to fight against social and environmental injustices. Mossville residents just wanted to live a happy and healthy life in a land they have lived in for many generations, but the greed of the Sasol caused them to lose all that. The movie leaves us with a lot to think about, and it's sure to spur discussions long after the credits have rolled.

Company Town is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes.