The Swedish mining and metallurgical giant Boliden exported 20,000 tons of toxic waste in the city of Arica in northern Chile in the 1980s instead of neutralizing it. The origins of the "black sand" were quickly forgotten and the waste disposal site became a children's playground. After a few years, thousands of inhabitants began to fall ill. Today, survivors seek justice in a landmark international lawsuit. The documentary is a continuation of the directors’ previous film, “Toxic Playground.” Their commitment makes "Arica" a film about the importance of documentary cinema and its impact on reality. Which will be more important during the trial: the voice of victims or corporate interests?

Michał Matuszewski