Transition sous tension – Investigation and documentary in the Massif Central
Violeta Ramirez’s film Transition sous tension (2024, 52 minutes) is the result of an anthropological investigation into the possible opening of a lithium mine in the Allier region. By interviewing various local players, the film shows the local reception of energy transition policies and perceptions of environmental change.
Film synopsis
Échassières, in the Allier region: 400 inhabitants, a few resilient businesses and a subsoil rich in resources. Following in the footsteps of tungsten and kaolin mining, lithium is now in the spotlight. For some, the extraction of this fundamental mineral for electric mobility will be the key to the region’s demographic and economic survival, as well as an important step towards national security of critical raw materials. For others, the intensive exploitation of the subsoil will mark a headlong rush that will generate major environmental impacts, anachronistic at a time when planetary limits are being exceeded. By presenting the contrasting positions of local residents, the film reveals the uncertainties associated with energy transition policies in a region directly affected by their implementation.
Film data sheet
France – 2024 – 52 minutes
Director and investigator: Violeta Ramirez
Scientific production: Marie Forget and Camille Girault
Photography and sound recording: Violeta Ramirez
Drone images: Stéphane Jaillet
Editing: Violeta Ramirez
Upcoming screenings
January 29, 2026, Saint-Martin-d’Hères (38), 6pm, Domaine universitaire
February 3, 2026, Rennes (35), 6:30pm, Sciences Po Rennes
February 4, 2026, Sceaux (92), 5pm, Université Saclay, Faculté Jean Monnet (salle Vedel)
February 10, 2026, Sophia Antipolis (06), 12pm, Mines – Paris PSL, technopole Sophia Antipolis (Amphithéâtre Mozart)
February 18, 2026, Rouen (76), 6pm, Université de Rouen Normandie, campus Pasteur
If you would like to organize a screening of the film, please contact: vioramirezpro@gmail.com
Photos from the shoot
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Coordination
Violeta Ramirez
Edytem (USMB)
