30. Film Festival della Lessinia
Bosco Chiesanuova (Italia)
23 August - 1 September 2024

In the Huayhuay district, in the Andes, a small Peruvian community still lives mainly from shepherding. The idyllic atmosphere, however, is only apparent: for some years, the voracious hand of the mining industry has carved a chasm in the heart of the mountains. The community gained new schools and jobs, but the river water has become cloudy and murky, more and more animals are dying, and the children develop new, disturbing illnesses. A chronic, diseased balance has been created, in which the community simultaneously lives and dies for the lead mine. But if on one hand the children and young people are the first victims of the contamination, it is from them that a ray of hope emerges. Thanks to a didactic project and the guidance of a courageous teacher, they become the protagonists in the analysis of the contaminated water,  offer the impetus to oppose the mining industry, and lead to dreams of a healthier, more ethical future. 

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  Alessandro Pugno

  Born in Casale Monferrato in 1983, he has lived and worked in Spain for many years as a photographer, director and producer. He is interested in environmental issues and is a member of the movement to combat asbestos. Among his documentaries,  All'ombra della croce (2012) was shown at various international festivals in Europe and Latin  America, earning the prize for best documentary at the  Malaga Festival.