Trouble the Water

Tia Lessin’s documentary “Trouble the Water” takes you on an extraordinary first-hand journey through the Hurricane Katrina disasters from the incredible experiences of the couple Kimberly and Scott Roberts. Not only does the film do an astounding job of presenting shocking images and footage from the midst of the hurricane, but it also delves into the heavy, emotional aspects as the audience bonds with the courageous Kim and Scott Roberts. Personally, I felt that the disasters and horrible consequences of the physical destructions from Katrina were sufficiently covered in the mainstream media, however Tia Lessin bravely reveals the astonishing lack of aid provided by the government, which was desperately needed, and scarcely covered by the media. The primary evidence is blatantly revealed in the film, where thousands of people unable to evacuate New Orleans were simply abandoned and left to endure. The decision to keep significant military sources overseas fighting in the war against terror while thousands of people were in desperate need of military aid, in need of food, water, and shelter, truly speaks about the corrupt priorities of the Unites States government. The footage shot about a year after the hurricane revealed more disturbing realities about unjust priorities; all of the buildings and property that contributed to tourist profit were sufficiently rebuilt and reopened, while the homes and residential neighborhoods of the lower class citizens of New Orleans were left in their horrific state of rubble. The levees remain to be weak and vulnerable to floods, neighborhoods like the ninth ward where Kim and Scott lived remain devastated, and many people who lost everything remain without government compensation for their losses.

After the screening, Tia Lessin spoke for about an hour about her journey making the film and the intentions she had for the finished project. My initial reaction to the film was that the documentary was an incredible account of the Katrina disaster, filmed first-hand from the perspective of Kim and Scott, giving the film a unique angle that really draws the viewer in. However, I am glad I was able to witness her speech after the screening because her personal account of the experiences she went through making the film truly made the documentary so much more significant. Her intentions were full of integrity and bravery, covering a topic that is extremely controversial. She endured so much initial rejection, and I commend her stubborn nature for persisting to work and complete the film, regardless of the reactions of some. I hope that her film continues to circulate and that more and more people become aware of the corruption Tia Lessin is revealing.