Off The Grid: Life Of The Mesa

Off The Grid: Life on The Mesa is a fascinating documentary released in 2007 that illuminates the lives of individuals who have chosen to leave the hustle and bustle of traditional society behind. This film delves into the unconventional lifestyle of a tight-knit community who are living off the grid in the desolate, harsh terrain of the Southwestern desert. As the movie unfolds, we witness the extraordinary reality of this society that steadfastly adheres to their principles of freedom and self-sufficiency.

The story is set on a plateau known as 'The Mesa' - a desolate expanse in the southwestern United States. The top billing actors in the movie are not characters but real-life individuals going by the names of Cowboy, Gecko, and Dreadie Jeff, among others, portraying themselves in their daily challenges of surviving in this harsh environment. They are just a few among about 400 people who live on this barren landscape, where everyone is responsible for their survival. The film dives into these characters' experiences and stories, offering remarkable insights about their lives and their steadfast refusal to conform to modern societal norms.

"Off the Grid: Life on The Mesa" is not just about survival but also the formation of a unique community. This group of free-spirited people have made a difficult choice, turning their back on established society in pursuit of freedom and independence. But what they lose in comfort, they make up for in friendship and close-knit bonds they would consider being their new families. The interpersonal relationships between these eccentrics form the crux of the narrative. From conflicts to their joint survival strategies, the documentary beautifully encapsulates how these residents navigate their unconventional lifestyle every day.

Cowboy is positioned as the de facto leader of the community. He is a dynamic, headstrong individual who spearheads collective action when needed, with an indomitable spirit essential to live in such challenging circumstances. Then, there's Gecko. He is presented as a charismatic, resilient individual who, like others, is deeply committed to an alternative, self-sustaining lifestyle.

On the other hand, Dreadie Jeff is quite philosophical, a testament to the environment's transformative influence. Despite deprivation and hardships, he still manages to find a sense of purpose, tranquility, and deep wisdom. He is a fascinating character who often provides profound reflective moments in the film with his philosophical musings and outlook on life.

Importantly, the film emphasizes the harsh realities of their lifestyle, keeping the romanticism often associated with 'off-grid' living at bay. They fashion homes out of old school buses, discarded trailers, and makeshift huts, collect rainwater to drink, and use solar power, amongst various other survival tactics. The film portrays their life's raw, unvarnished truth, grappling with issues such as theft within the community, the harsh weather, and the regular difficulties of securing food and maintaining their makeshift homes.

While the portrayal of their physical survival is compelling, the film further explores the psychological and emotional experiences of these people. It illuminally explores the arena of solitude, existential reflection, and finding personal identity away from the consumerist modern society, wrapping the viewers into an emotional bond with the characters.

Moreover, the filmmakers used an observational approach with minimal voiceover interruption, allowing characters and situations to hold the viewer's attention effortlessly. This style of storytelling only adds to the documentary's authenticity. Moreover, the atmospheric background score and the panoramic cinematography, capturing the vastness and isolation of "The Mesa", further enhance the immersion and transport you right into the heart of this offbeat community.

"Off The Grid: Life on The Mesa" is more than just a documentary. It's a social study, exploring a small slice of humanity and providing viewers a window into an unconventional way of life, rarely exposed to the world. The three leading individuals represent the human spirit's power in seeking freedom for different walks of life, all united by their shared desire for independence from societal constraints. Whether one agrees or disagrees with their lifestyle, one thing is undeniable - they live life on their terms. The unflinching spirit of these desert dwellers, resonating through the narrative, will have you engaging and empathizing with them in their journey, making "Off The Grid: Life on The Mesa" a thought-provoking viewing experience.