Documentaries on Energy Independence

Description: This film investigates the life and mysterious death of the electric car, focusing on the General Motors EV1. It explores the political, economic, and technological barriers to electric vehicle adoption, offering a critical look at the automotive industry's resistance to energy independence through electric cars.

Fact: The film features interviews with notable figures like Mel Gibson and Ed Begley Jr., who were early adopters of electric vehicles.

Description: Focusing on the Maldives, this documentary follows President Mohamed Nasheed as he campaigns for global action on climate change, highlighting the vulnerability of small island nations and their push for energy independence to combat rising sea levels.

Fact: The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in

Description: This documentary looks at the aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, one of the largest environmental disasters in U.S. history. It explores the impact on local communities, the environment, and the broader implications for energy policy and independence.

Fact: The film was directed by Margaret Brown, who also directed the acclaimed documentary "The Order of Myths."

Description: This film connects the dots between climate change, energy policy, and national security. It features interviews with military and political leaders, discussing how energy independence could mitigate the risks posed by climate change and resource scarcity.

Fact: The film was executive produced by Jared P. Scott, who also worked on "The Cove."

Description: "Crude" documents the legal battle between indigenous Ecuadorians and Chevron over oil pollution in the Amazon rainforest. It delves into the complexities of energy extraction, environmental justice, and the quest for energy independence in developing countries.

Fact: The film was directed by Joe Berlinger, known for his work on "Paradise Lost."

Description: Josh Fox's documentary uncovers the environmental and health impacts of hydraulic fracturing or "fracking" in the United States. It sheds light on the dark side of the natural gas boom, questioning the sustainability and safety of this method of energy extraction.

Fact: Gasland was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: This documentary examines how Cuba managed to survive the economic crisis following the collapse of the Soviet Union, which led to a sudden halt in oil imports. It showcases Cuba's transition to sustainable agriculture and community-based solutions, providing a blueprint for energy independence in times of crisis.

Fact: The film was screened at the Sundance Film Festival in 2006, highlighting its global relevance.

Description: "Switch" takes viewers on a global journey to understand the world's energy systems, from coal to solar, and how different countries are approaching energy independence. It's an educational look at the energy landscape, offering both optimism and a call to action.

Fact: The film was produced by the University of Texas at Austin's Energy Institute.

Description: This documentary series explores the global oil industry, from the extraction in the North Sea to the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. It provides a comprehensive view of how oil shapes our world and the challenges of moving towards energy independence.

Fact: The series was produced by the BBC, known for its in-depth documentary programming.

Description: This documentary explores the concept of peak oil and its potential impact on suburban lifestyles, which are heavily dependent on cheap oil. It discusses alternative energy solutions and the necessity for energy independence to sustain modern living.

Fact: The film was one of the first to bring peak oil theory to a broader audience.