As Bill Haney's infuriating, straightforward documentary argues, the coal industry is not only poisoning our air and water but our democracy as well. The title refers to the Coal River Mountain in West Virginia, the only peak in the area unleveled by Massey Energy (you might remember them and their loathsome CEO Don Blankenship from last year's Upper Big Branch mine explosion that killed 29 people). The residents of the surrounding towns, some from families that have lived there for two centuries, took a stand and demanded that the despoliation cease. They were up against tough odds, though, since not only does Big Coal's money and power control their state, it also has both political parties in its pocket nationwide. On the demonstrators' side is Bobby Kennedy Jr. (RFK's son), justice, and common sense. They point out that wind farms not only don't pollute, they also bring in more money and jobs. Commie hippies! Who will win? The answer might surprise you.
95 MINUTES | KENDALL SQUARE
