Film Lens
Petrolia focuses on the architecture of the oil industry along the Scottish coastline, particularly influenced by a redundant oil drilling platform in the Cromarty Firth. The film captures the impending depletion of oil and gas supplies in Scotland, projected to run dry within the next forty years. Using 16mm film, it employs time lapse and long exposure techniques to document the industrial landscape.
The film presents various industrial phenomena, including the refinery at Grangemouth, which is characterized by its toxic beauty. It also features large drilling platforms arriving for maintenance at Nigg and the shipbuilding cranes in Glasgow harbour, marking the end of an era in shipbuilding. The visual style emphasizes the stark contrasts and the industrial heritage of the region.
Why Watch
- •See the Grangemouth refinery's striking visuals.
- •Find out about Scotland's oil supply timeline.
- •Meet the last shipbuilding cranes in Glasgow.
Did You Know
•Oil and gas supplies in Scotland are expected to run dry in 40 years.
•The film was shot using 16mm film, a specific choice for its aesthetic.
•Grangemouth refinery is described as having a toxic beauty.
Perfect For
Scottish industrial historyOil industry enthusiastsDocumentary film lovers