Malcolm Rogge

Under Rich Earth is a story about ordinary people with extraordinary courage. In a remote mountain valley in Ecuador, coffee and sugarcane farmers face the dismal prospect of being forced off their land to make way for a Canadian mining project. The issue creates division between those hoping the project will create jobs and those who feel it will destroy the land.

Unprotected by the police and ignored by their government, local activists prepare to face down the invaders on their own. Their resistance ultimately leads to a remarkable and dangerous stand off between farmers and a band of armed paramilitaries deep in the cloud forest. The role of the video camera cannot be underestimated in the outcome.  Under Rich Earth offers a surprising and poignant tale of hope and determination.

Audience Choice - One of Top Ten Canadian Films at Vancouver International Film Festival

http://underrichearth.ryecinema.com/