Richland examines the complex identity of Richland, Washington, a town created to house those working at the Hanford nuclear site. Originally built as an integral part of the Manhattan Project, Richland takes pride in its nuclear heritage and its pivotal role in the development of the atomic bomb. Through a seamless, almost flow-of-consciousness, blend of archival footage and contemporary interviews, the film presents a multifaceted portrayal of the community and its residents. It engages with nuclear workers and their families, archaeologists, indigenous people whose land is now permanently irradiated, and a descendant of Hiroshima’s atomic bomb survivors, exploring themes of home, safety, and the normalization of violence.
Chosen for the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival, Richland offers a thought-provoking examination of how communities grapple with their past. It celebrates Richland's achievements while also confronting the underlying pain, loss, and unresolved promises. The documentary prompts viewers to reflect on the broader implications of historical violence and its enduring impact on collective identity. Richland captures the essence of a town shaped by nuclear history and its ongoing search for understanding and reconciliation. It serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities inherent in human narratives and the enduring quest for meaning amidst profound historical legacies.
Richland is a pensive, artlike experience. It is also a unique experiment in American ethnographic film: Typically, films shot in this style are focused on South America, Africa, or Southeast Asia. In this way, it’s incredibly refreshing. We are given intimate glimpses into the lives of activists and residents alongside well-directed conversations about Richland’s history and these people’s varied beliefs about it.
Perhaps the only way Richland felt disappointing was it didn’t include nearly as many native voices as promotional materials led me to believe. The documentary felt like it had all of ten minutes of footage and conversation with an explicitly native perspective. I feel this weakened one of the film’s stated ideas, that the environment around the Hanford site was irreparably harmed and displaced natives have a lot to say about it. Why don’t we hear more from them? Beyond that, there are no outstanding issues with this beautiful documentary. Library patrons and professors interested in nuclear documentaries and ethnographic films will be very excited to see Richland. Highly Recommended.
Where does this documentary belong on public library shelves?
Documentary Films Section: Richland is a documentary that presents a multifaceted portrayal of a unique American community with a significant historical background. It belongs in the general documentary section, where patrons interested in history, social issues, and ethnographic studies can easily access it.
History Section: Given its in-depth exploration of the Hanford nuclear site and its role in the Manhattan Project, Richland fits well in the history section, particularly among materials related to World War II, the Cold War, and American history.
Social Sciences Section: The documentary's examination of community identity, historical violence, and the impact on indigenous populations makes it relevant for the social sciences section. It offers insights into themes of home, safety, and the normalization of violence, which are pertinent to sociology, anthropology, and ethnography.
Environmental Studies Section: Since the film addresses the environmental impact of the Hanford site and the displacement of indigenous people, it is also suitable for the environmental studies section. It provides a perspective on the long-term environmental consequences of nuclear projects.
Where does this documentary belong in classrooms?
History Classes: Richland is ideal for history courses, particularly those covering World War II, the Cold War, and the development of nuclear technology. It provides a detailed case study of the Manhattan Project's human and environmental legacy.
Social Studies and Sociology Classes: The film's exploration of community identity, historical trauma, and the social dynamics of Richland makes it a valuable resource for social studies and sociology classes. It can prompt discussions about how communities deal with their complex histories and the impact of historical events on collective identity.
Environmental Science Classes: The documentary’s focus on the environmental consequences of the Hanford site and the displacement of native populations makes it relevant for environmental science courses. It can be used to discuss the long-term impacts of nuclear projects on ecosystems and communities.
Ethnography and Anthropology Classes: Richland is a unique experiment in American ethnographic film, making it suitable for ethnography and anthropology classes. It provides a rare look at an American community through an ethnographic lens, offering a fresh perspective that is often reserved for studies in other parts of the world.