The makers of BAG IT turn their attention from the environmental impact of plastic to the potential rebirth of uranium mining in a Colorado town.
Paradox CO has seen better days. A once-thriving mining town, its population is down to 242. In the hopes of encouraging population growth through the creation of new jobs, there are plans for a new uranium mill, reversing a trend away from uranium mining of more than two decades. Despite the environmental legacy of radiation-related health problems from the uranium industry in the past, many residents are supportive of the project and for the boost the new mill would bring to the local economy. For others, it’s not a welcome change. Director/producer Suzan Beraza and producer Michelle Hill live in the vicinity of the proposed Pinon Ridge Uranium Mill, giving them a personal stake and intimate access to others who stand to be affected by the project.
Currently in production, the project completed a successful Kickstarter campaign earlier this summer. Additional information about the project and the filmmaker may be found on the doc’s website.
I first learned about the project at this year’s Hot Docs Forum, where the project was pitched. As I noted then, sample work presented was incredibly promising – haunting cinematography that beautifully captures the unique landscape of the region and its residents. This sense of stylization promises to help distinguish the film on a visual level, evoking a sense of a town that’s long been on the decline and seeking revitalization. I’m eager to see more as the doc develops.
what (not) to doc 