Devil Put the Coal in the Ground offers a profound exploration of West Virginia's complex history and the enduring impacts of extractive industries. As the state emerged from the American Civil War, its founders were unified in their pursuit of exploiting its abundant coal and timber resources. This documentary delves into the ramifications of this legacy, examining its effects on the people, communities, and environment of West Virginia.
Rather than sensationalizing issues like the opioid epidemic or poverty, the film intimately focuses on the residents who share a deep-rooted connection to their homeland. Through personal narratives, ranging from recovering addicts to environmental activists to corporate lawyers, a diverse tapestry of experiences emerges, collectively forming a "People's History of West Virginia."
Recognized for its compelling storytelling and insightful commentary, Devil Put the Coal in the Ground has achieved acclaim, winning top honors at festivals like the Finger Lakes Environmental Film Festival and the Green Film Festival of San Francisco, and being selected for prestigious events including the Environmental Film Festival in the Nation's Capital and the Virginia Film Festival. Devil Put the Coal in the Ground is a thought-provoking exploration of resilience, community, and the enduring struggle for survival in Appalachia.
Devil Put the Coal in the Ground is a very strong documentary with very few issues. It is artful and well-shot, but it is also sensitive. While the film’s focus on individual locals is commendable, it does result in some rambling and some stuttering in the pace. Devil Put the Coal in the Ground is very much an environmentalism documentary, but it is also a labor and opioid crisis documentary, playing these three roles in nearly equal measures. Any patrons interested in any of those topics will thoroughly enjoy Devil Put the Coal in the Ground. Highly Recommended.
Where does this title belong on public library shelves?
Devil Put the Coal in the Ground belongs on environmental, human rights, and history documentary shelves.
What sort of film series could use this title?
Any series studying mining, labor history, or West Virginia could use Devil Put the Coal in the Ground.