By Amanda Gilmore
This exceptional Thriller follows a group of Environmental Activists, who band together on a daring mission to blow up a pipeline in West Texas.
Co-Writers Ariela Barer (who also stars as Xochitl), Jordan Sjol, and Daniel Goldhaber (who also serves as Director and Editor) have adapted the controversial book by Andreas Malm of the same name. It’s a non-fiction Novel that claims sabotage is an effective solution in fighting climate change. The Co-Writers have used this theory and created one of the most enthralling heist Thrillers of the year.
We watch as the group of activists plan, prepare and carry out their audacious mission. Goldhaber’s expert Direction and Editing cut back in time, giving each character a reason for carrying out this dangerous act. The connection between each character is that they’ve all been impacted by climate change. For instance, Xochitl’s mother died due to an abnormal heat wave and Theo (Sasha Lane) has been diagnosed with a rare Blood Cancer that has been linked to people who grew up near chemical factories.
Some characters question what they’re doing and the ramifications of their actions. Such as gas prices being raised, making life harder on the poor. Or them committing what is considered a terrorist act. These open conversations, along with the layered, heartrending backstories show a balanced look at the climate debate. There aren’t any right answers given, instead, How To Blow Up A Pipeline allows a space to explore facts, opinions and calls to action.
Overall, How To Blow Up A Pipeline is a remarkable suspenseful heist thriller, with an intense Score from Gavin Brivik. The entire cast (Barer, Lane, Kristine Froseth, Lukas Gage, Forrest Goodluck, Jayme Lawson, Marcus Scribner, and Jake Weary) are exceptional. And the Cinematography by Tehillah De Castro dazzles. Most importantly it’s a brilliant Film that will provoke essential conversation about climate change.
How To Blow Up A Pipeline screens as follows at TIFF ’22:
Sat, Sep 10 IN-PERSON at TIFF Bell Lightbox at 9:00 pm
Sun, Sep 11 IN-PERSON at Scotiabank Theatre at 3:15 pm
Sun, Sep 18 IN-PERSON at Scotiabank Theatre at 5:45 pm
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