Maya Angelou once said, “Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.”
GASLIT had its world premiere at SBIFF (Santa Barbara International Film Festival), and I had the opportunity to see it while attending. Here’s my spoiler-free take:
GASLIT is a shocking, extremely disconcerting documentary featuring Jane Fonda, a two-time award-winning actress, producer, author, activist, and fitness legend. It is an honest depiction of what is happening along the Gulf Coast between Texas and Louisiana. It is an LNG (liquefied natural gas) roadtrip of massive repercussions that will set every tiny hair on fire with sadness and anger. Our country is in danger. Our planet is reaching the point of no return from the destruction the fossil fuel industry perpetrates. This film is a wake-up call that must be taken seriously. Viewers will not be able to look away, nor should they.
The film is brilliantly written, produced, and directed by Katie Camosy. GASLIT is her first feature-length film. She has been working with Greenpeace for several years, leading important projects concerning the climate crisis. GASLIT was not an easy topic to articulate to the general public. This is due to its immense scientific vocabulary, but through intense, compelling interviews with those directly affected and with witnesses to the region, it made all the difference. The camera’s eye made it impossible to deny what is currently happening. Camosy created a well-crafted, design-focused film that is intentional and unforgiving. It is no wonder GASLIT was selected Best Documentary at this year’s Santa Barbara International Film Festival.
Jane Fonda’s thoughtful narrative shifted the focus to the people who are losing their land, livelihoods, and lives. I felt emotionally connected to every farmer, fisherman, and community Fonda visited. I experienced her empathy and caring. It was quite visceral in nature and palpable. Fonda has a natural ability to put those she meets at ease and not be overwhelmed by her star status. “HI. Call me Jane.” Her words of concern never felt forced. Audiences will be assured by Fonda’s search for the truth.
My only nit about the film was the length. Yes, I realize the enormity of the subject matter. And yes, it was all handled with the utmost care and professionalism, but by the end, I was so overwhelmed. Cancer Alley alone was unimaginable to fathom. My heart was broken long before the credits rolled.
GASLIT is a powerful, must-see movie. It will change the way you perceive our world. I hope it will be the catalyst for change.
Follow-along and support this film at https://gaslitdoc.com/.
