If a Tree Falls

What turned a working class kid from Queens into an "eco-terrorist" facing life in prison? Academy Award nominee for Best Documentary, If A Tree Falls tackles two of the most pressing concerns of our time: environmentalism and terrorism by lifting the veil on a radical environmental group the FBI branded the United States’ "No. 1 domestic terrorism threat". 

Director Marshall Curry (previously nominated for an Oscar for Street Fight) points his lens at mild mannered Daniel McGowan, and explores why an idealistic environmentalist  took up with the radical Earth Liberation Front (ELF) and participated in two multi-million dollar arsons.  Devastated lumber mill owners, angry activists, police investigators, and Daniel himself tell a complicated story that resonates in today's political climate with the emergence of the Occupy movement.  Ultimately the film asks the viewer to consider what the consequences are when people feel powerless, and questions how far is too far when fighting for your beliefs? 

If a Tree Falls also won the Best Documentary editing award at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival. Visit the official web site.