2004, USA
Documentary, Drama, History
READ THE REVIEW AT The Desert Sun.
Plagues and Pleasures on the Salton Sea may be dripping with Americana kitsch, but the heart of this film is no laughing matter. Directors Chris Metzler and Jeff Springer created a festival-winning documentary which is finally receiving distribution. John Waters added his voice as narrator to the theatrical release, which is perfectly fitting considering his penchant for social criticism.
The filmmakers draw audiences by way of hip photo montages, tropically retro music by Friends of Dean Martinez and news reels that reveal better times. The trail of waterskiing, martini-downing tourists has long since declined, but the characters that remain are memorable.
"I hold affection for people that live on the fringe," Metzler proclaims, "For anybody that's willing to take risks and live life outside the norm."
These locals are brutally honest about the state of affairs in their backyard. Tired of the government and media misrepresenting the situation, they expound on all aspects of their saline surroundings. And no one living within the Coachella Valley should ignore their situation, as it will ultimately affect them as things become worse.
In short, the Salton Sea is dying. What began as an accidental flooding by the Colorado River has been maintained mostly by agricultural runoff. Soon some of the water flowing into the sea is going to be diverted to cities such as San Diego, cutting short the renewing cycle of water. Less water and higher salinity will mean the fish population and the rest of the aquatic food chain won't be able to survive, resulting in even more massive fish die-offs. Not always a pretty sight or smell, but the inhabitants keep their eyes on a brighter future.
Metzler asserts that Salton Sea denizens make sacrifices for the pools and golf courses of bigger cities. He believes the area suffers from ignorance, and though he does not consider himself an activist filmmaker, felt it important to present a balanced account. In the process, Metzler became enchanted by the people and wanted to tell their stories.
"These people are living the American dream, just maybe a little differently," Metzler muses.
In Bombay Beach -- "the town that wouldn't die" -- locals such as Hungarian freedom fighter and unofficial mayor Hunky Daddy keep things lively. Naked Don once greeted travelers to spread messages of love and understanding. In Niland, Leonard Knight maintains a manmade, painted mountain of literally Biblical proportions. He's hoping it will draw needed money into the area.
While some hope the Salton Sea will once again become California's Riviera, others hold no such illusion. Members of the recreation area and state park discuss the current ecological status. The documentary not only provides a personal perspective but educates viewers as to the history and possible future of this massive aquatic mistake.
No matter the warning, these folks won't leave. Whether it is a monetary impossibility or they simply cannot foresee any other lifestyle, these are the people of the Salton Sea. Shaped by an environment that was shaped by accident, they are as unique and intriguing as their surroundings.
Check out the film's groovy website.