Crude: The Real Price of Oil (Trailer)

Crude: The Real Price of Oil follows the progress of a $27 billion legal case brought against the Chevron Corporation, formerly Texaco, for alleged environmental contamination in the Ecuadorian Amazon. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of 30,000 Ecuadorians, claims that oil drilling operations have polluted their ancestral homeland, creating what activists describe as an “Amazon Chernobyl”.

The documentary chronicles the complex legal battle that unfolded over several years, showcasing interviews with representatives from both sides of the case. It highlights the influence of media support, celebrity activism, and the power dynamics between multinational corporations and indigenous communities. The film features key figures such as Pablo Fajardo, the lead attorney for the plaintiffs, and Steven Donziger, an American environmental lawyer advising on the case.

Throughout the film, viewers are presented with stark imagery of the affected areas, including oil-polluted rivers, contaminated landscapes, and the health issues faced by local communities. These visual elements serve to illustrate the human and environmental costs associated with oil extraction in the region.

The documentary also touches on broader themes, such as the rapidly disappearing indigenous cultures, shifting political power in Ecuador, and the global implications of local environmental disasters. It showcases the efforts of activists and celebrities, including Trudie Styler and Sting, in raising awareness about the case and supporting the affected communities.

The film concludes with the prediction that the legal battle may continue for many years, highlighting the complexity and long-term nature of such environmental lawsuits.