Actress and activist Jane Fonda, now 88, is set to release a poignant documentary titled ‘GASLIT’, which explores the repercussions of the oil and gas extraction boom across various communities in the United States. The film will premiere in select cinemas beginning June 12, and its trailer has been exclusively unveiled by PEOPLE magazine.
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During her journey, Fonda traverses regions particularly affected by these industries, focusing on areas in Texas and along the Gulf Coast. The documentary aims to shed light on the intertwining crises of climate change and democracy facing the nation. Fonda, whose commitment to activism is deeply rooted in her upbringing, cites her father, iconic actor Henry Fonda, as a significant influence in her journey.
Reflecting on her childhood, Fonda shares her admiration for her father’s dedication to storytelling that highlighted social justice, stating, “My dad was Henry Fonda, and he made movies that… fought for fairness.” This foundation has informed her life’s work in championing causes for marginalized communities—what she refers to as “the underdogs.”
In ‘GASLIT’, Fonda asserts the urgent need to address the environmental and health crises stemming from fossil fuel dependency. She warns that failure to shift away from these energy sources may result in devastating consequences. “If we don’t make a fast turnaround…we’re going to face catastrophe,” she explains. Fonda further cites alarming potential outcomes, including over 4,000 premature deaths linked to these issues by the year 2050.
The documentary not only amplifies the voices of those affected but also showcases prominent figures who share Fonda’s values, including actress Connie Britton and musician Maggie Rogers. Fonda emphasises the importance of storytelling in raising awareness about the damage inflicted on individuals, businesses, and entire communities, while also highlighting the resilience of those fighting against these adversities.
Fonda’s transformative shift towards activism occurred during the Vietnam War, when she became more aware of societal injustices. Officially becoming an activist around 1970, she admits, “I was ignorant before then,” but the experiences of American soldiers opened her eyes. “When you take any issue, and you drill down, you discover racism, you discover greed,” she remarks, epitomising the interconnectedness of social issues that she continues to address today.
Her commitment remains unwavering, as she describes activism as a “full-time thing” due to its existential implications. Expressing deep concern for the future, she mentions her children and grandchildren, saying, “I want them to have a livable future that has nature and wildlife and health.”
Fonda expresses a desire for her documentary to serve as a catalyst for others to take action. She insists on the necessity of amplifying voices and urges viewers to engage in meaningful change. “We have to raise our voices and make it known that this is happening,” she states emphatically. “To protect the people that are most in danger and elect people to office who will not put up with this.”
As ‘GASLIT’ gears up for its theatre release, Fonda’s fervour for activism, rooted in her family legacy, encourages a new generation to confront the challenges posed by climate change and social injustice. With an enduring spirit, she reminds us all of the importance of fighting for a just and sustainable future.