Before the Mountain Was Moved is a substantial documentary feature film from 1970 that delves into the socio-environmental issues laid bare by the devastating practices of strip mining in the Appalachia region of United States. Directed by award-winning and renown filmmaker Robert K. Sharpe, this enlightening and eye-opening documentary takes on a powerful and thought-provoking journey that intricately addresses the collateral damage imposed by unrestricted strip mining across the idyllic landscapes of West Virginia.

The documentary unfolds its narrative through a meticulously detailed examination of the strip-mining operations in West Virginia, showcasing how these processes, while contributing to economic growth, also lead to considerable environmental destruction. It shines a spotlight on the numerous lives and communities that are directly and indirectly affected by these operations, elucidating the impacts on their livelihoods, homes, health, and overall quality of life. It is a gripping tapestry of individual stories, environmental facts, industry proceedings, and a broader societal commentary.

Sharpe, through his masterful directorial capabilities, carefully handles the subject matter, presenting a balanced perspective that does not outright villainize the coal mining industry. Instead, it seeks to explore the intertwined complexities of economic growth, livelihood security, environmental health, and socio-political dynamics. The film is exceptionally poignant in highliting the fight of local inhabitants against the adverse effects of strip mining, their struggle for their homes, their effort to move mountains before mountains were moved by the machinery.

A significant part of the film revolves around the local community's battle to enact a state law that would put checks on uninhibited strip mining. It articulates their push for holding the coal companies accountable for the environmental consequence of their actions, demanding that they restore the mined areas to their original state upon completion of their operations, a struggle captured with hands-on interaction and interviews.

The movie captures the era's quintessential spirit; Against a backdrop of grassroots activism and a significant uptick in environmental awareness in the 70s, Before the Mountain Was Moved serves as both a historical document and a call to arms. Featuring interviews with coal miners, displaced residents, environmental activists, lawyers, and politicians, the documentary offers a panoramic view of the issue at hand from multiple dimensions.

Rather than focusing on high drama, the film unravels slowly, offering informational and emotional appeal in equal measures. It masterfully employs an observational style, using real shots of strip mining and its aftermath, which deeply resonate with viewers. Sharpe's documentary reflects his commitment to social and environmental justice, making it a captivating exploration of the intersections of industry, economy, environment, community, and governance.

With riveting stories of local resilience and resistance, Before the Mountain Was Moved foregrounds the experiences of regular, salt-of-the-earth people standing up against towering Goliath-like corporate entities. Penetrating and deeply moving, the documentary allows its audience to witness the destruction, feel the plight of the communities, understand their fight, and see the dire need for reform.

The film does an excellent job in docu-journalistic storytelling by featuring a range of visual elements and extensive research in its exquisite exploration of socio-environmental conflict. A sound blend of stirring first-hand testimonies, informative statistical data and stark visual imagery have been combined with well-crafted narration and in-depth interviews.

A notable point is that it is not merely a critique of coal companies alone; the problem is systemic, as the film reveals. It questions the complicity of the government and its regulatory bodies in allowing these catastrophes to unfold, forcing viewers to comprehend the depth and breadth of the issue at hand.

Complementing the impactful visuals is the musical score, subtle yet effective, enhancing the film's overall emotional intensity. Before the Mountain Was Moved is a cinematic experience that stimulates both the mind and the heart, making it a compelling and essential documentary watch.

All in all, Before the Mountain Was Moved pulls no punches in exposing the harsh realities of strip mining, delivering a passionate plea for a more sustainable and socially responsible mode of industrial operation. It remains a profound and pertinent reminder of the enduring battle for social justice, environmental rights, and accountable governance and continues to resonate strongly even half a century after its initial release.