'The Devil’s Miner' is the story of 14 year-old Basilio Vargas and his 12 year-old brother Bernardino, as they work in the Bolivian silver mines of Cerro Rico, which date back to the sixteenth century. Through the children’s eyes, we encounter the world of devout Catholic miners who sever their ties with God upon entering the mountain. It is an ancient belief that the devil, as represented by hundreds of statues constructed in the tunnels, determines the fate of all who work within the mines.
Raised without a father and living in virtual poverty with their mother on the slopes of the mine, the boys assume many adult responsibilities. They must work to afford the clothing and supplies vital to their education. Basilio believes only the mountain devil’s generosity will allow them to earn enough money to continue the new school year. Without an education, the brothers have no chance to escape their destiny in the silver mines.
2005, Creative documentary, 82 min. In distribution.
FESTIVALS & AWARDS:
Winner Chicago Film Festival-Silver Hugo Award.
Winner German Camera Award Special Mention.
Winner Tribeca Film Festival Best Doc. Filmmakers Special Mention.
Winner FIPRESCI PRIZE Int. Film Critic Award Hot Docs-Toronto.
Winner Humanitarian Award Mexico City Festival.
Winner Woodstock Film Festival Best Doc.
Winner Jerusalem Film Festival Spirit of Freedom Award.
PBS Independent Lens Audience Award.
Nominated European Film Academy and DGA Awards-Outstanding Achievement in Documentary Directing.
Directed & produced by Richard Ladkani & Kief Davidson.
Cinematography: Richard Ladkani.
Edit: Kief Richardson.
Music by Leonardo Heiblum & Andres Solis.
Co-producer: Germany Werner Vennewold.
Co-producer: Carles Brugueras & Bettina Walter.
A production by Urba Landscapes & La Mita Loca Film Production.
Co-produced with Polar Star Films.
In association with Provobis Film Hamburg.
With the participation of ARTE / BR / 3SAT / OF, Latino Public Broadcasting,
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting & Independent Lens and Television Española.