Watch Overburden

Overburden is a 2015 documentary film that takes a deep dive into the coal mining industry of West Virginia. The movie features the hardworking and courageous residents of the state who have been living under the shadow of coal mines for generations. Directed by Chad A. Stevens, Overburden highlights the struggles of two local activists, Lorelei Scarbro and Betty Harrah, who are fighting against the powerful coal industry to protect their land and community.

The movie walks us through the lives of Scarbro and Harrah who have had to deal with the aftermath of coal mining on their own land. Scarbro had to bear the loss of her home, which was destroyed in a mining accident. Harrah, on the other hand, is living with the fear of underground mining explosions that could put her entire community at risk. The movie showcases the emotional turmoil and physical hardships these women face on a daily basis, while simultaneously pursuing their activism.

Overburden reveals the environmental devastation caused by the coal industry. The filmmakers visit a mountaintop removal site and the documentary shows how the process of blasting off the top of mountains and dumping the debris into nearby valleys affects the land, water supply, and air quality. The movie also highlights the negative health effects of coal mining on the people who live close by, including the hazardous coal dust and toxic chemicals released into the air and water.

The movie also showcases the perspectives of the coal miners who work tirelessly in the mines. It dives deep into the ethical dilemma facing coal miners who are stuck between providing for their families and the environmental destruction that comes with their job. The movie captures their personal stories and their connection to the industry which has supported the state's economy for generations.

Overburden also explores the significant role of politics in the coal industry. It highlights how the coal industry has had immense political influence in West Virginia, which has resulted in lenient regulations for mining, and weakened workers' rights. The documentary shows the challenges that Lorelei Scarbro and Betty Harrah face as they fight against the coal industry's political influence at both the state and national level.

Betty Harrah, Rory McIlmoil, and Bill Price brings rawness and authenticity to Overburden, providing great depth to the movie's storytelling. The documentary offers a compelling and authentic portrayal of the ongoing struggle between the coal industry and the community in West Virginia. It provides an engaging and emotional journey that educates and informs viewers of the environmental destruction that comes with fossil fuel corporations, government and corporate actions and their impact on communities.

In conclusion, Overburden is a remarkable documentary that explores the complexities of the coal industry, environmental devastation, human rights, and economic development in a relentless pursuit of profit. It provides the audience with an interesting and enlightening take on the ongoing struggle between the coal industry and the local community that has had to carry the burden. The movie tells the story of the resilience and determination of everyday Americans who are fighting for justice and equality in their communities, providing a voice to those who have long been overlooked.

Overburden is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 6 minutes.