Watch Oil: Black Gold

Oil: Black Gold is a 2015 documentary film produced by CNN showcasing the historical, political, and practical usage of black gold in the modern world. Narrated by the well-known CNN anchor, Fareed Zakaria, the film primarily explores the underlying impacts of oil on the global economy, geopolitics, and energy independence. The stunning cinematography accompanied by the historical archive footage and interviews with experts of the oil industry make the movie an informative and compelling watch.

The documentary starts by discussing the discovery of oil in the US in the nineteenth century, and its potential to fuel the US economy to become a global superpower. Zakaria explores how most countries in the world are entirely reliant on oil and the challenges that come with that addiction. The movie highlights how some countries have been able to turn their oil resources into engines of growth and development, while others have failed to do so due to corruption and inefficiency.

The film unveils how the oil industry has caused a significant power shift in the world. Countries like the United States, Russia, and the Middle Eastern countries hold great sway over their oil reserves, which are essential to the global economy. The documentary provides a detailed analysis of the oil market structure, with the big oil companies largely dominating production and supply. The movie also explores the geopolitical implications of oil, and how countries use it as a weapon for political leverage.

The movie also takes an in-depth look at the environmental impact of oil drilling and consumption. It highlights some of the devastating effects of oil spills, increased carbon emissions, and other environmental hazards that threaten the planet’s well-being. The film discusses the technological advancements made in the industry over the past few decades, including extraction and refining processes, such as fracking, which remain polarizing in the public discourse.

A significant theme in the movie is the continued use of oil despite the rise of renewable energy sources. The documentary presents how the world still relies on oil for its transportation and energy needs despite the damaging effects on the environment. Zakaria explores the potential of renewable energy sources, the progress made in recent years, and how the world is far from achieving a complete switch from oil to renewables.

Oil: Black Gold also looks at the future of oil in the global economy. Experts express their views on what the future holds for oil as a commodity, the implications of the competition with renewable energy sectors, and the geopolitical tensions that will undoubtedly arise.

The documentary uses a variety of mediums to make a compelling argument about the future of oil. The graphics, archive footage, and interviews are well put together and provide a wealth of information without feeling overbearing. It is clear that the goal was not to vilify oil entirely but to present the current state of the industry, the challenges, and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Overall, Oil: Black Gold is a mesmerizing documentary that presents a comprehensive analysis of the oil industry, its impact on the world, and the challenges and opportunities presented by the global transition to renewable energy. Despite its focus on a vital aspect of the world economy, the filmmakers have created this documentary in a way that is approachable and engaging, making it a must-watch for those both engaged and concerning about the world's future.