Watch The Shadow of Gold

The Shadow of Gold is a documentary film produced by Arte that takes its viewers on a journey through the complex and multifaceted world of the precious metal, exploring the various social, economic, and environmental implications of gold mining across different parts of the world.

The documentary begins by highlighting the importance of gold in the global economy and its role as both a store of value and a symbol of power and status. It then takes a closer look at the mining process and the various human and environmental costs associated with it. From the use of toxic chemicals like cyanide to the forced displacement of local communities and the destruction of natural habitats, gold mining has often been linked to a wide range of social and environmental issues.

The film then shifts its focus to the people who depend on gold mining for their livelihoods, from small-scale miners in Peru and Ghana to the corporate giants that dominate the industry. Through intimate interviews with a variety of stakeholders, including miners, activists, investors, and academics, the documentary provides a nuanced and multidimensional perspective on the complex web of relationships that constitute the global gold trade.

One of the most compelling aspects of the film is its attention to the political and historical dimensions of gold mining. The Shadow of Gold explores the role of colonialism and imperialism in shaping the global gold trade, and how the legacy of these forces continues to play out in the present day. It also examines the ways in which gold mining has been used as a tool for authoritarian regimes to control and exploit their populations.

Despite the grim realities that the film presents, it also offers a glimmer of hope. The documentary features several inspiring stories of individuals and organizations that are working to create more just and sustainable systems of gold production. From Fairtrade gold initiatives in Africa to grassroots movements for indigenous rights in the Amazon, The Shadow of Gold highlights the innovative and creative ways in which people are fighting for a more ethical and equitable gold industry.

Overall, The Shadow of Gold is a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of one of the world's most precious and problematic resources. It offers a wealth of information and perspectives that will challenge viewers to think critically about their own relationship to gold and the global supply chains that bring it to their doorstep.