Watch Orange Witness

Orange Witness is a mesmerizing and confronting short film that explores the effects of asbestos on the town of Libby, Montana. Directed by Christy Cabanne, the documentary's narrative follows the story of Gayla Benefield, a retired schoolteacher from Libby who fought for years to bring justice to her hometown after many residents developed fatal diseases as a result of asbestos exposure.

The film is a monument to the power of activism, providing a platform for Benefield's story and those affected by asbestos exposure in Libby to reach a wider audience. It is a thoughtful commentary on the limitations of the legal system and the pervasiveness of corporate greed, but also a tribute to the resilience of people in the face of adversity.

The film's title, Orange Witness, is a reference to the color of the vermiculite ore that was mined in Libby and used in insulation for thousands of homes across the United States. This asbestos-laden mineral has been attributed to the onset of mesothelioma in many of its victims, a deadly form of cancer that can take decades to manifest. The film is also named in reference to the orange safety gear worn by workers in the asbestos mine.

The first half of the film focuses on introducing us to the town of Libby, and its unique history. Benefield is portrayed as a typical Libby resident, with deep roots in the community and a passionate desire to protect her neighbors. The narration of the film is minimal, with most of the information delivered to us through interviews and footage of the town. The camera work is stunning, with beautiful shots of the Montana landscape contrasted against the ruins of the asbestos mines.

As we learn more about Libby, we are introduced to the victims of asbestos exposure: former miners, mechanics, and residents who were exposed to the mineral through their daily activities. These individuals, who have developed health problems such as mesothelioma, are portrayed as dignified and brave. They have retained their sense of humor and compassion despite their dire circumstances.

The second half of the documentary is a gut-wrenching account of the legal battle for justice in Libby. Benefield becomes the voice of the town, rallying her community and bringing national attention to their plight. She is determined to hold the corporations responsible for the asbestos contamination accountable for their actions. The film shows the painstaking process of gathering evidence, filing lawsuits, and fighting for compensation.

The film also depicts how the legal system fails the victims of asbestos exposure, with corporations using their money and influence to avoid admitting culpability. The court case drags on for years, with Benefield and her supporters fighting every step of the way. Despite setbacks and heartbreak, the residents of Libby remain resolute in their mission to achieve justice.

Ultimately, Orange Witness is a powerful and moving tribute to the people of Libby, and their fight to hold corporations accountable for their toxic actions. Through Benefield's story, we are reminded of the important role that activism plays in standing up for what is right. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled, and spur you to become involved in your own community.

Orange Witness is a 2012 documentary with a runtime of 42 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.9.