This event is later in December, a sleepy month for visual art. But not for culture, and for things that are important.
Promised Land. Heavy meme. Ancient, even biblical. And now the title of a dramatic film by Portland filmmaker Gus Van Sant about natural gas fracking in America.
The film tells the story of a very small town guy, working for a very large company, convincing farmers to sign gas mining contracts. Like the Music Man, it seems to be going swimmingly until it goes so wrong. Ultimately it reaches a transformative resolution.
Energy is one of our most important ecosystems, but water is too. And though we don't mine natural gas in Portland or Oregon, natural gas exports are an issue we will need to deal with here. It's being studied by the Department of Energy and is a top issue for Senator Wyden, because exports will raise our prices.
The film's reach is sure to create a discussion across a country which needs to talk seriously about energy.
Director Gus Van Sant introduces his film, Promised Land, tonight in a benefit showing for Outside In, providing medical and survival services for homeless youth. The film begins its regular run December 28, in time for the 2012 Oscar nominations. Tickets in advance at the McMenamins box offices. Film at the Bagdad Theater 3702 SE Hawthorne 7:30PM $79 main/$49 balcony
