This documentary follows six young Canadians, including refugees from the Middle East and Africa, who come to Fort McMurray, the capital of the third-largest oil reserve in the world. “Fort Mac,” as it’s known, becomes a testing ground for these young dreamers as they struggle with their own perceptions of money, glory and self-worth amid plummeting oil prices, an unpredictable economy and, most recently, awe-inspiring wildfires.
Max, the young barber, mentions that it is “hard to find someone who is happy in Fort McMurray.” What contributes to the lack of fulfillment in these migrant workers? How does nepotism include but also exclude others from participating in the immense wealth of “Fort McMoney”? Investigate some of the social issues that have arisen from having a largely transient population increase in numbers (e.g., substance abuse/addictions, prostitution, homelessness, etc.). What issues does this documentary raise about racism or xenophobia in Fort McMurray’s dominant industry?