Environmental activist Erin Brockovich has signed on to executive produce a new documentary, “Unearth,” which will have its world premiere at DOC NYC on November 16th.
Directed, produced and photographed by Hunter Nolan, “Unearth” tells the story of two brothers, the Salmon sisters and the Strickland brothers, who live in Bristol Bay, Alaska. Two sets of brothers learn of advanced plans for the Pebble Mine (a large open-pit gold and copper mine) near their home, and are alarmed and opposed. The Alaska Native Salmon Sisters are on the front lines of regulation, pushing the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to block the project, while the Strickland Brothers, independent fishermen, are the Pebble Mine developer’s message to the public. Exposing the truth behind the truth. This 93-minute document exposes systemic failures in mining and the balance between material needs and environmental costs.
“This film reminds us of the promise of activism in the face of fatigue and disillusionment,” Brockovich said. “I am deeply inspired by Christina and Alexanna Salmon’s unwavering commitment to protecting Bristol Bay from the environmental and cultural devastation that the proposed Pebble Mine could cause. ‘Unearth’ Continuing my tradition of empowering women and communities to overcome social injustice. ”
Brockovich signed on to executive produce the film after Nolan sent it to agents earlier this year.
“When we thought about the people who inspired us, Erin was at the top of the list for someone who successfully held the industry accountable for wrongdoing,” Nolan said. “When we had the opportunity to connect with her agent, there was no question about it. As soon as Erin saw the film, she was on board.”
Nolan co-directed Unearth with the Strickland brothers of Oberlin and Dunedin. He is asking DOC NYC to distribute the film. The director hopes Brockovich’s involvement in the project will lead to an eventual sale.
“Erin’s story became shorthand for successfully confronting powerful beings,” Nolan says. “It’s an incredible recognition that she sees our film as a continuation of that story. People are hungry for hope and inspiration, and Erin’s role as EP is an incredible recognition that our film is a continuation of that story.” I feel like it helps show that you can feed that desire.”
When President-elect Donald Trump recently nominated former New York Congressman Lee Zeldin to lead the EPA, it was seen as a setback for U.S. environmental policy and landmark climate regulations. Under the EPA’s new guidance, Nolan’s “Unearth” could be considered a roaring documentary.
“Until we as a society learn to value healthy communities, clean water, and intact ecosystems, Bristol Bay will remain at risk,” Nolan said. “As the mining industry races to meet the burgeoning demand for mined raw materials, the need for effective regulation and the means to enforce it has never been greater. Tailwinds for the extractive industry are expected under the new administration. Our film affirms that, no matter who is in power, each of us can and must become the hero we have been waiting for.”
