TDF
Venezuela is widely known as one of the most dangerous regions on the planet. How People Live: Venezuela travels through areas where unknown hazards could be hiding behind every corner and exposes the harsh realities of daily life endured by its brave and downtrodden people.
As soon as the host enters the country, he is warned of recent acts of violence against tourists just like him. Armed muggings, kidnappings, drug smuggling, blackmail and other acts of gang violence are a frequent occurrence. The film outlines the identities and methods of the most prominent gangs in the area. The host often finds himself in precarious situations.
In the capital city of Caracas, electricity and clean water is a scarcity. Former President Hugo Chavez regulated that the length of all showers were to be limited to three minutes.
It’s a country of contrasts. Venezuela houses one of the world’s richest oil reserves, yet the poorest citizens struggle to survive on a monthly salary of barely $10.
Consumer pricing is another oddity in the country. Our host tells us that a full tank of gas may cost under a dime, but a container of McDonald’s French fries could set you back by more than $100.
These oppressive conditions find release during Venezuela’s largest carnival. The film captures the spirit of the festivities as it follows young children donning face paints and women dancing joyfully on the streets.
The affable and inquisitive host serves as an excellent guide through the landscapes, marketplaces and modest domestic dwellings. Traveling from the slums to the big cities, viewers will gain tremendous insights into the influences that both crime and culture play in shaping the country’s legacy.
The film also provides a foundation for the history of the region’s political strife, and its strained relationship with the rest of the world. We learn of the political corruptions that are allowed to run rampant, and the various assassination attempts that have plagued the country’s leaders over the years.
Utilizing stunning drone photography, the film caresses the country’s vast and beautiful waterfalls and mountainsides.
By the end, the film proves that Venezuela is a country of great potential and even greater challenges.
