Waste Land (2010)

In the mesmerizing documentary, Waste Land (2010), we plunge into the extraordinary world where art, humanity, and survival intersect. Renowned contemporary artist, Vik Muniz, embarks on an emotional odyssey from the polished galleries of international art fame to the gritty outskirts of Rio de Janeiro – home to Jardim Gramacho, the largest landfill on the planet. The film unfolds as a testament to the transformative power of art and the resilient spirit of humanity. It's a journey that begins with Muniz, hailed as one of the greatest artists of the generation, seeking to change lives through his art. He collaborates with the catadores – the vibrant, resourceful pickers of recyclable materials who, like real-life Shakespearean characters, live and work amidst the mountains of discarded waste. They echo Machiavelli, teach us how to recycle ourselves, and reveal a world where one man's trash truly becomes another's treasure. As Muniz fashions striking art from the refuse, his intent to alter the lives of the catadores takes an unexpected turn. He finds himself transformed, learning profound lessons from those he aimed to uplift. Waste Land is not merely a social documentary. It is a triumphant tale of human spirit, a celebration of art's power to uplift, and a moving exploration of the beauty found in the most unlikely places.

Waste Land is a documentary movie featuring Vik Muniz and directed by Lucy Walker.

Waste Land is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy, Plex and Plex Player.

It is also possible to buy Waste Land on Amazon Video and Vudu.