Though it is being presented on the campus of a church, the film “DamNation” has nothing to do with eternal retribution. Rather, the second in a series of fall films being sponsored by Transition Sonoma Valley and the Earth Care Committee of First Congregational Church, is about the dams that stop rivers from running their natural course.
On Thursday, Oct. 16, the award-winning film will be screened at Burlingame Hall beginning at 7:30 p.m.
“DamNation,” explores the sea change in national attitude from pride in big dams as engineering wonders to the growing awareness that our own future is bound to the life and health of our rivers. According to the film’s producers, dam removal has moved well beyond the fictional Monkey Wrench Gang, whose environmentally driven exploits were brought to life in author Edward Abbey’s most famous work of fiction title. The movement to dismantle “low-value, high-cost” dams is gaining momentum across the country by ordinary citizens because of how intrinsically all lives are tied to the water.
The engaging film delivers majestic cinematography and unexpected discoveries as the viewer is transported through rivers and landscapes altered by dams, but also through a metamorphosis in values, from conquest of the natural world to knowing ourselves as part of nature.
As with the other films in the series, “DamNation” will be followed by informal conversation to encourage community dialogue and engagement.
Refreshments will be provided. A suggested donation of $10 will be collected at the door and no one will be turned away regardless of ability to contribute. Net proceeds will cover fees connected with the films and support the work of the sponsors. All films will be shown at Burlingame Hall located at 252 W. Spain St., on the campus of First Congregational Church and Congregation Shir Shalom.
Doors will open at 7 p.m.
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