Keywords: Water scarcity, Global inequality, Financial institutions, Resource commodification, Climate change
Introduction:
"Lords of Water" is a thought-provoking documentary directed by Jérôme Fritel and released in 2019. This film delves into the impending global water shortage, projected to impact at least one in four people by 2050. In the era of climate change and rising global inequality, this documentary's subject matter becomes even more critical.
Synopsis:
"Lords of Water" paints a grim picture of the future, where water scarcity creates a fertile ground for a new market. Major financial institutions, including Goldman Sachs, HSBC, UBS, Allianz, Deutsche Bank, and BNP, are eager to invest billions in water-related ventures. This trend sets the stage for a potential water monopoly, with far-reaching implications for humanity.
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Analysis:
Fritel's documentary is investigative, unveiling the economic machinations behind our most vital resource. The research is comprehensive, exploring the depth of the impending crisis and the motivations of those capitalizing on it. The presentation style is direct and compelling, ensuring the audience fully grasps the magnitude of the issue.
Historical and Factual Context:
Water scarcity is not a new issue but is exacerbated by climate change, population growth, and inadequate infrastructure. The World Health Organization estimates that currently, about 2.2 billion people lack access to safely managed drinking water.
Key themes in the film:
- The commodification of natural resources
- The role of financial institutions in global resources management
- The impact of water scarcity on societal inequality
Film Comparisons:
Compared to other documentaries on iWonder, "Lords of Water" stands out for its examination of the intersection between finance, resources, and global inequality.
Noteworthy Moments:
One of the significant moments in the documentary is the revelation of the massive investments being made in water-related ventures, highlighting the potential for a monopolistic control over this essential resource.
Reviews:
"Lords of Water" has been well-received with an IMDB score of 7.4, with viewers praising its in-depth exploration of a critical global issue.
Conclusion:
"Lords of Water" is a must-watch for those interested in environmental issues, global inequality, and economic dynamics. It provides a crucial perspective on a looming crisis and the forces that may shape its outcome.
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PERSONALITIES:
Jérôme Fritel: The director of the documentary.
LOCATIONS:
Various globally: The documentary explores global locations, highlighting regions with significant water scarcity.
Links for further exploration
- World Health Organization - Water Scarcity: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/drinking-water
- UN Water - Global Water Crisis: https://www.unwater.org/water-facts/scarcity/
- National Geographic - Freshwater Crisis: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/freshwater/freshwater-crisis/
Key Questions Raised by the Film:
Is the commodification of water ethical?
I wonder what the film would be in another art form:
"The Water Will Come" by Jeff Goodell- if it was a famous book, both delve into the impending global water crisis.
"Mercy Mercy Me (The Ecology)" by Marvin Gaye - if it was a famous song, song that laments the state of the environment.
"The Great Wave off Kanagawa" - if it was a famous piece of art, a representation of nature's force and our vulnerability.
Leonardo DiCaprio - if it was a famous celebrity, a passionate advocate for environmental issues.
Blue - if it was a colour, representing water, the central theme of the documentary.
Classical - if it was a music style, complex, layered, and thought-provoking, just like the film.
