Production Notes

Overview: Stolen Springs is my first feature-length documentary, a project that took me across locations in New York City and Maine. It’s a thought-provoking exposé that combines investigative journalism, environmental advocacy, and my own journey as a young director, driven by a deep need to uncover something wrong and tell a meaningful story.

Concept and Development: The concept for Stolen Springs began with a simple economics lesson on the free rider problem during my junior year of high school. That moment sparked my curiosity and led me to investigate bottled water companies, especially Poland Spring, one of the biggest players in the industry. From that point, I wanted to explore a larger question: who really pays the price when corporations exploit shared resources? With a passion for storytelling and a determination to find the truth, I started researching the economics of bottled water and its extensive environmental impact.

Production Approach: The documentary adopts a raw, hands-on style, capturing real-life moments as they unfolded. I took on multiple roles as director, writer, cinematographer, and editor, drawing on my experience in independent filmmaking to bring authenticity and urgency to the film. Production spanned several months, with a significant part of the story unfolding during my solo road trip to Maine—a journey that marked my first adventure driving long distances alone, adding a coming-of-age element to the experience.

Working with a minimal crew—often just me with a camera and audio gear—I focused on organic, intimate encounters with the people I interviewed. I filmed on a Sigma FP camera, mostly using a 25mm prime lens and a 24-70mm prime from Sigma for sharp, cinematic detail. I stabilized the setup on a DJI Ronin gimbal for smooth shots and used a tripod for steadier scenes, while a few GoPro shots added dynamic angles for more action-oriented moments. I also used a Potensic Atom SE drone, which I found as a beginner-friendly option with 4K footage capabilities. It was my first time using a drone, and after learning the controls, I captured striking aerial shots of Poland Spring's factories, adding a new perspective and immersing viewers in the scale of these production facilities within the natural landscape.

Filming Locations: I shot the film in key locations, each adding a unique layer to the narrative:

  - New York City: The bustling streets, school classrooms, and Central Park served as the setting for my initial discoveries and the blind taste tests that challenged preconceived ideas about bottled water.

  - Maine: From the pristine landscapes of Poland Spring’s source sites to tense community meetings, Maine became the backdrop for exploring the long-standing relationship between Poland Spring and the locals. The serene beauty of Maine contrasted with the environmental damage caused by water extraction, creating a compelling visual narrative.

Key Challenges:

1. Solo Filmmaking: As a young filmmaker, I faced the challenge of juggling multiple production roles. From operating the camera to coordinating interviews, I quickly learned the importance of staying flexible and solving problems on the fly.
2. Access and Logistics: Gaining access to key figures and navigating unfamiliar terrain in Maine presented logistical challenges. I had to rely on a mix of persistence and charm to secure interviews with state representatives, environmental experts, and local residents.
3. Capturing Authenticity: I wanted to capture authentic moments, sometimes filming impromptu conversations and observations. For example, the blind taste test in Central Park required me to approach strangers—a real test of both extroversion and spontaneity.
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Notable Scenes and Techniques:

1. Blind Taste Tests: Filmed in Central Park and Maine, these scenes playfully debunk the perceived superiority of bottled water. My method was simple yet effective: I set up a small stand and invited passersby to guess which cup held tap water versus bottled water. The results were surprising and added an interactive element to the film.
2. Environmental Visuals: To highlight the environmental toll of water extraction, I used drone footage to capture depleted water sources in Maine and Poland Spring’s large extraction plants. I also filmed serene shots of New York City’s reservoirs to emphasize the irony of importing water from Maine when local tap water is just as clean.
3. Archival Footage and Animation: I creatively incorporated archival photos, old advertisements, and simple animations to explain complex concepts, like the history of PET plastic and the economic theory of the free rider problem. These elements made the film both informative and visually engaging.

Post-Production: Post-production was a labor of love, with me spending countless hours editing footage, refining the narrative, and crafting impactful sound design. I decided to keep the soundtrack minimal, using ambient sounds from Maine’s natural landscapes to contrast with the harsh noises of urban life and industrial water extraction.

Director’s Reflection: Reflecting on the making of Stolen Springs, I see it as a transformative experience that tested my resilience and deepened my commitment to environmental advocacy. This film taught me that change starts with curiosity and that one person’s voice can be louder than you might think. I hope Stolen Springs inspires people to rethink their choices and consider the bigger picture.