Beyond the Pipeline Takes an In-depth Look at the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and the Dakota Access Pipeline

By Ethan Thomas

The Standing Rock Sioux tribe has opposed the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline since learning about it in 2012.  The tribe argues that the pipeline will be harmful for their people and the natural environment where they live.

Directed by filmmaker and activist Paul Redman, Beyond the Pipeline follows several members of the tribe and their efforts to stop the construction of the pipeline. The story is focused on UN Special Rapporteur of the Rights of Indigineous Peoples meeting the Standing Rock Sioux leadership and community in 2017 after months of protest against the Dakota Access Pipeline. 

Beyond the Pipeline is curated by Planet Classroom. The film’s title is a reflection of the human rights issues the controversial Dakota Access Pipeline raises. This documentary also allows the audience to truly understand and empathize with the members of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe as they intimately explain their arguments against the pipeline and why it will be harmful to them and their community.

This film has a deeply important message and plays a vital role in understanding the issues that the pipeline will cause for the tribe. I enjoyed this film and would recommend it to anyone who is curious in learning more about the situation.

I would give this film 4 out of 5 stars.

Ethan Thomas is a current student at Florida State University, set to graduate in May 2023. He is double majoring in Creative Writing and Information Technology and is pursuing a career in filmmaking.

Author: C. M. Rubin

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