Waterborne (2005)

Waterborne, written and directed by Ben Rekhi, is an interesting and disturbing film about the impact to society if our water supply is contaminated. The story unfolds in Los Angeles and the societal impact of such an event is told through three intertwining stories that elaborate on the potential effect such a issue would have on people during a panic situation.

One of the stories involves two twenty-something friends, Zach, played by Christopher Masterson and Bodi, portrayed by Jake Muxworthy, who struggle to get out of Los Angeles. Masterson, best known for his work on Malcolm in the Middle, is excellent as the ever-forgiving friend to Muxworthy, who continues to put them in precarious situations.

Another storyline follows the relationship between Vikram, excellently played by Ajay Naidu, who's a man of Middle Eastern descent who's fallen in love with an American blonde, played by Mageina Tovah. Their relationship is a great example of the subtlety of bigotry as Vikram must deal daily with looking similar to those responsible for 9/11, while his girlfriend must deal with the bigotry from Vikram's own family as she tries to establish a relationship with them. Vikram, who runs a convenience store with his mother, performed by Shabana Azmi, deals with the rising tensions and price gouging as the water supply grows in demand.

The final story involves Ritter and his wife and child. Ritter, who is played by veteran actor Jon Gries, best known for his work as the Uncle in Napolean Dynamite, is wonderful as the worried father pulled into his National Guard duty while his wife, played by Lindsay Price, and daughter struggle with the shortage of water and deterioration of social laws. Ritter is forced to face having to keep fellow American's from potentially contaminated water supplies by any means necessary, up to and including killing them, if necessary.

All of these stories are interesting and well honed, culminating in Vikram's convenience store as the wear and tear of days of no water have taken their toll on everyone involved.

Waterborne is disturbing not only in it's presentation, but in the questions it asks. What would happen if water was suddenly the hottest commodity? How would society react? Would you be prepared? Could your family survive? Could you protect your water and your loved ones from those who would take it by force? It makes you want to buy a little extra bottled water and canned goods every time you go grocery shopping... just in case.

Waterborne is so effective because it does not relay a heavy hand in its storytelling. And kudos for presenting all sides to the terrorist threats without being politically charged on either side. The film presents interesting and unique characters in a way that effectively propels you through their journey... a journey that is exceedingly real in today's international climate. Unless things changed dramatically, the reality is that, this will probably happen in some way in our lifetime…either this or something equally as devastating.

Lastly, the film was made for under $200,000 and shot with digital video equipment. It just goes to show you what can happen when you have talented people involved in any project. The lighting and color is exceptional and the acting is spot on. It gives an indy filmmaker such as myself, hope.

After watching Waterborne, you will not take that next drink of water, or shower, or dip into the pool for granted.