Northern Grease

Directed by Tamo Campos and John Muirhiad, Northern Grease is a compelling 2014 documentary that exposes the environmental issues affecting Northern Canada, while delineating heartfelt tales of resilience and community efforts to address these problems.

Northern Grease tells the captivating story of two adventure-seekers, Tamo Campos and John Muirhead, along with their companion Jasper Snow Rosen, who embark on a journey to explore the truth about Canada's untamed northern territories. Their guiding principle throughout this exploration is the objective to understand the deep-seated environmental concerns surrounding the tar sands oil industry, as well as the destructive implications of the industry to the indigenous communities and the rest of the world.

The movie unravels as an extraordinary road-trip cum snowboarding adventure, but at its core, it is an on-the-ground examination of the environmental costs of human trespasses into these natural habitats. Witnessing firsthand the rampant industrialization in Alberta's tar sands and urban centers, the team shares the stories of communities affected by these industries and the social activists who fight against these damaging practices.

Tamo Campos, a professional snowboarder and the co-founder of environmental action group Beyond Boarding, is the driving force of the film. His passion for environmental activism is evident throughout Northern Grease, inspiring viewers not only through his words but also with his actions, like converting a school bus into a vegetable oil-run, eco-friendly vehicle for their journey.

Alongside Campos, John Muirhead contributes towards the film's vivid story-telling. His background in environmental sciences provides an informative and scientific perspective to the narrative, thus instilling a more profound understanding of the detrimental environmental effects of uncontrolled industrialization.

Adding to the film's appeal is the presence of Jasper Snow Rosen, a fellow adventurer whose filmmaking skills capture the stunning grandeur of Canada's northern territories while subtly accentuating the threat posed to these areas by wallet-driven ecological descisions.

Northern Grease is not just a film about environmental activism; it's a clarion call to humanity to rethink our actions and their impact on the world around us. The film successfully strikes a balance between adventure, education, inspiration, and activism. Throughout their journey, the protagonists inspire several individuals and communities to take initiation against the harmful practices impacting our environment.

A significant aspect of Northern Grease is the spotlight it shines on the indigenous communities affected by these environmental crises. The film showcases the unwavering strength of these communities, who despite relentless adversities persist in their fight to protect their ancestral lands and culture.

Moreover, Northern Grease underscores the need for unity and collective action when confronting these issues. The film is a testament to the power of small actions combined for a greater cause, as illustrated by the various community efforts, it highlights. From protests to creating sustainable solutions like eco farming, the communities' efforts underscore the message that everyone can contribute in some way to mitigate these environmental concerns.

In terms of cinematography, Northern Grease is a visual treat that presents the sheer beauty of Canada's northern territories and the effects of industrialization on these lands. With Jasper Snow Rosen behind the lens, the scenes captured are simultaneously enchanting and alarming, consequently creating a compelling visual narrative.

To sum it up, Northern Grease is a thought-provoking documentary about environmental activism that tells a tale of adventure, community resilience, and the urgent need for eco-awareness. Through the journey of Tamo Campos, John Muirhead, and Jasper Snow Rosen, the film offers an insightful, educational, and inspiring narrative that challenges viewers to question our actions and reconsider their impact on the world around us meticulously.