Debuting in 2010, the critically acclaimed documentary GasLand follows the growing shale gas industry. The film begins in the filmmaker, Fox's, home in northeastern Pennsylvania. He is offered $100,000 for drilling rights to his property. Fox deeply explores the method used by these drillers called "hydrofracking" - which is potentially harming and polluting near by water supplies. The documentary - shot through vivid and almost frightening filters - is a clear and passionate attack on the shale gas industry. Fox suggests these companies are working with federal and state regulators to hide the true environmental damage their trade causes. The movie, appearing on HBO, is a source of controversy among everyone from critics to shale executives. Throughout the film (from an ignorant viewer's perspective), it appears that Fox is exaggerating the process and effects of hydrofracking. In fact, after the movie premiered Fox was hit with the claim that he took liberties with the true facts of the fracking industry.
Fox uses the "shock" method to expose fracking companies. In a town called Dimock, GasLand shows how the tap water can actually catch fire. This, he claims, is a result of the drilling going on near by.Fox profiles different people in Dimock as well as other places to see their reactions and how drilling has affected their lives. One Dimock resident is clearly amused by the fire-water and enjoys holding a lighter up to the faucet. Another cowboy-like man growls at the thoughts of the gas company because they do not stay true to their word.
While Fox's view of the gas companies portrayed in GasLand is somewhat apocalyptic and the gas companies are described heroes, the truth lies somewhere in between. Gas companies are not completely bad. They provide jobs and money to hardworking people. However, this comes at a cost and GasLand shows that it is up to the individual to create their own idea of the gas companies. Despite Fox's complete contempt.
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