A Different American Dream

A Different American Dream is an intriguing documentary film that premiered in 2016. Often described as a thought-provoking exploration of the clash between economic advancement and environmental conservation, the film offers an insight into the conflicts arising from America’s energy extraction industries in the heartlands of the United States, particularly the Bakken Formation in North Dakota.

The movie uses the backdrop of the oil boom in North Dakota to encapsulate a broader discussion encompassing ecology, economics, and human rights. The setting is a reservation of the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, a Native American reservation which is home to the Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara nations.

Directed by Simon Brook and Jane Wells, the film depicts a distinctly different American dream, far removed from the concept of an idyllic suburban life, offering a unique perspective on contemporary American society. This is not a story of individuals striving for personal success or happiness. Instead, it investigates the impact (both positive and negative) of industry on indigenous communities and their sacred lands. The flow of easy money due to the oil boom and the consequences it brings to the earth and its indigenous people makes the crux of the narrative.

The documentary doesn’t just narrate a story; it questions the viewers’ understanding of development and progress. It introduces the hard-hitting reality of the commercial exploitation of land and natural resources and its severe consequences on the environment and people living on it.

The film showcases powerful scenes of the stunning landscapes, juxtaposed with the ever-growing industrial structure. The audience gets an eye-opener on how the life routines, which were once deeply connected with the earth, are changed drastically by the accessibility of wealth from newly discovered oil reserves. The film showcases the polluted waters, increasing traffic, and rampant drug abuse induced by the encroachment of the oil industry. The massive influx of outsiders searching for work also brings social issues to previously quiet rural areas.

Nonetheless, it’s not entirely a tale of gloom and doom. The film also acknowledges the economic benefits that the oil industry brought to the reservation. It presents varying perspectives across the community—some hailing the new-found economic boost, others lamenting the price. The documentary doesn't hide these nuances.

A Different American Dream gives a voice to the indigenous communities - a chance to express their concerns, fears, and demolition of their cultural ethos due to the transient oil workers and their lifestyle. The audience gets to see an incisive account of the native tribe's resistance against industrialization, trying to preserve their historical legacy in the face of immense pressure.

Characterized by smartly woven narratives, interviews, and on-ground footage, the documentary conveys its message compellingly. It highlights the indigenous people's spirit, their reverence for their sacred land, and their struggle preserving their identity amidst rapid modernization. It's a deep, introspective dive into the often-ignored consequences of America's energy policies and the endeavors of indigenous communities to maintain their cultural heritage.

A Different American Dream is noteworthy, not only for its poignant depiction of the plight of tribal communities but also for its broader implications about the worldwide climate crisis. It reminds us of the value of sustainable development and the necessity to maintain a delicate balance between progress and preservation.

The film offers a poignant narrative and striking visuals that shed new light on an otherwise overlooked, dire situation. It extends beyond mere economic gains to underscore the significance of forging a future that acknowledges and respects the past.

In conclusion, A Different American Dream takes the audience on a profound journey through complex yet vital themes—cultural preservation versus economic prosperity, and the true cost of development. It raises fundamental questions about the idea of the American dream, urging the viewers to rethink their notions of progress and growth. It's a much-needed discussion that is often brushed aside in the narrative of advancement and success.