In Mexico, where unrestrained mining has turned many rural communities into virtual ghost towns, there is a growing recognition of the collusion between industry, organized crime and the Mexican government, which is having a chilling effect on locals and Land Defenders. In La Guardia Blanca, the voices of citizens share stories of land displacement and the fear of reprisal for speaking against expansive extractive projects infringing on their homes. Through lush jungles, winding rivers and arid desert landscapes, director Julian Elie’s exquisitely lensed film underscores the complicity of multinational corporations, including Canadian mines, in a vicious cycle of corruption and violence.
Now in our 25th year, Planet in Focus is an environmental media arts organization with year-round programming. Our mandate is to produce cultural events that showcase engaging and artistic films that question, explore and tell stories about the world in which we live. We use film as a catalyst for public awareness, discussion and engagement on a broad range of environmental issues.