“What if you lived by the largest body of fresh water in the world but could no longer afford to use it?”

So begins Liz Miller’s captivating documentary, The Water Front, which follows one community’s fight to retain public control of its water and keep this basic resource affordable for everyone.

Set in Highland Park, Michigan, The Water Front begins with the community’s descent into a fiscal crisis after the once prevalent auto industry leaves town. Facing economic collapse, a state financial consultant team is hired to pull the town out of crisis. The team turns to the town’s water system as a source of economic recuperation.

The result is exorbitant water bills in a community with few resources to meet the astonishing charges. The community goes from disbelief to activism and a small group of determined community leaders emerge -- with help from Food & Water Watch -- to defend their basic human right for affordable and accessible water. See The Water Front  and witness the birth of a local water justice movement. 

WATCH THE TRAILER

SCHEDULE

Check the map to see where Water Front is playing or see the list below.

IN YOUR COMMUNITY

Highland Park is just one example of a community coming together to take control of their water. Numerous communities across the country are opting for public ownership of their water services and organizing to ensure affordable access to this essential resource.

You can also help spread the word in your own community by hosting a screening of The Water Front for friends, family, neighbors, or even community leaders.

Get information about your local water.

ENTER THE CONTEST