Patagonia Rising

Streaming video - 2015

Deep in the heart of Chile's Patagonia region flow two of the world's purest rivers, the Baker and Pascua. Fed by vast glacial systems, these untouched rivers drive biodiversity in rainforests, estuaries and marine ecosystems. They are also the life source for Patagonia's most tenacious residents: the Gauchos, the iconic South American Cowboy. Now, five huge hydroelectric dams are planned for the two rivers. Over the past century more than 45,000 large dams have altered the health of the planet's rivers with disastrous impacts that continue to unfold. Capturing the heated battle between those who wish to exploit the rivers and those who wish to preserve them, Patagonia Rising brings awareness - and solutions - to this gl...obal conflict over water and power. "An intelligent and awe-inspiring film." - Variety. "Beautifully filmed and patiently explained...breathtaking landscape shots honor a way of life in imminent danger of being, quite literally, swept away." - The New York Times. "Offers stunning views and evocative glimpses of a near-vanished agrarian lifestyle." - NPR. "Excellent. An intelligent, passionate and cogent scientific argument against damming the rivers. Patagonia Rising echoes the call of Occupy Wall Street...and leads us to one startling conclusion: that dams are nothing more than international investment opportunities for the rich." - Film Journal. more