Watch From the Ashes

From the Ashes is a documentary film released in 2017, directed by Michael Bonfiglio, that explores the future of the coal industry in the United States through the eyes of several individuals who have been affected by it. The film takes a comprehensive look at the current state of the industry, the economic impact on communities, and the environmental consequences of coal mining and combustion.

The film moves fluidly between interviews with people in the coal industry, environmentalists, and politicians, as well as ordinary citizens whose lives have been shaped by the industry. One of the key themes of the film is the impact of the decline of the industry on communities that were once dependent on coal. Through the stories of people like Regina Lilly, who lost her job in the industry, and Cecil Lilly, whose family has lived in a coal-producing region for generations, the film illustrates the devastating consequences of the industry's decline.

In addition to highlighting the economic implications of the industry's decline, the film also explores the environmental costs of coal mining and combustion. Through interviews with environmental activists and scientists, the film offers a stark reminder of the toll that coal takes on the natural world. We see images of mountaintop removal mining, and learn about the dangers of coal ash and its impact on water supplies.

While the film certainly takes a critical stance toward the coal industry, it also gives voice to those who support its continued existence. C. Belmont Keeney, for example, makes the argument that coal is a vital source of energy for the country, and suggests that efforts to transition to renewable energy sources are misguided.

Ultimately, the film makes a powerful case for the need to reckon with the social, economic, and environmental consequences of our reliance on coal. Through its rich, nuanced portrait of the industry, From the Ashes presents a compelling call to action, urging us to confront the challenges of the present moment and forge a more sustainable future.

The film features stunning visuals, including sweeping shots of the natural landscape and striking images of coal production facilities. The score, by composer Dan Deacon, adds a haunting, ethereal quality to the film that underscores its themes of loss and transformation.

Overall, From the Ashes is a thought-provoking and deeply moving documentary that sheds light on one of the most pressing issues facing our country today. By giving voice to the diverse range of perspectives on the coal industry, the film highlights the complexity of the issue and challenges viewers to think critically about our relationship with this vital but problematic source of energy.

From the Ashes is a 2017 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 22 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.0.