Dams seem to be a source of “clean energy”, or so it is claimed. In truth, dams take a far greater toll on the environment and on local culture than almost any other form of energy production.

The construction of the world’s third largest dam, the Ralco Dam in Chile, has led to the demise of the indigenous Mapuche-Pehuenche peoples. Neither the Incas nor centuries-long occupation by Spanish colonialists were enough to drive the proud Mapuche-Pehuenche from their territories. Yet today their land lies buried beneath the waters of the Bíobío River. The enormous dam was built by the giant Spanish energy producer ENDESA with the blessing and support of the Chilean government. Through intrigue and governmental complicity, the Mapuche were forced to sign sales agreements for their land. Efforts at resistance were nipped in the bud, and those who fought for Mapuche rights were demonized as terrorists. State president Eduardo Frei, whose own private company held shares in ENDESA, was responsible for the criminalization and imprisonment of Mapuche leaders, many of whom are still behind bars today. This film is dedicated to all Mapuche political prisoners