Following on from their 2020 documentary, The Golden Rule, producer Diane Mellen and director Stacey Stone refuse to rest in their fight to expose the devastating impact of the Santa Susana Field Laboratory on the surrounding area of the Simi Valley.
As before, the documentary features a diverse set of interviews, from scientists (including Professer Dan Hirsch) to concerned locals (and unconcerned locals). Also those who have unfortunately suffered terrible losses and are still yet to recieve justice.
Through the interviews conducted by Mellen, the rage of the community is captured with raw intensity, and at times, tragic despair. The interviews are backed up by news footage and articles, reflecting how well researched the documentary is.
The shocking statistic that those living closer to the Field Lab site are 60% more at risk of cancer makes the continued silence on the affair even more infuriating. Moving towards other areas that are home to hazardous substances; Stratford, Connecticut and the site Raybestos used for manufacturing asbestos brake linings. As a superfund site (containing hazardous waste needing long-term clean up), more should be being done to prevent damage to health.
More than 73 million Americans are thought to live within 3 miles of a superfund site. But they are reluctant to talk about it. Why? Many people simply don’t have the means to move away from the area, so would rather ignore what they are unable to change. Others fear that drawing attention to the issues will decrease their property value, further binding them to the area.
Stone and Mellen continue to advocate for more clarity regarding these superfund sites, so people can make informed choices when deciding where to live, and avoid putting themselves and their families at great risk.
The editing and cinematography are both dynamically engaging, but also remain sensitive to the topics at hand. Once again the music remains another high point, with credit going to Jerry Deaton. The song ‘Outta’, used throughout the film, is an international collaboration by musicians throughout Europe and reflects great ingenuity in overcoming the effects of quarantine that affected 2020. The narration by the late Ed Asner perfectly compliments the documentary, drawing the individual elements together to create a unified whole.
Toxic Sh!t continues to draw attention to important issues regarding public safety, and reflects the tireless effort of those who care enough to try and make a change.
Watch the trailer below!
A huge thank you…for your dedication, investigation, and devotion, in making this documentary a reality for all to see. Who knew? Now we do, with the credit, going to you!