You've Been Trumped Too

The documentary, "You've Been Trumped Too," delves into the environmental and social disruption caused by Donald Trump's luxury golf course development in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. More than just a chronicle of a construction project, the film becomes a poignant exploration of power imbalances and the human cost of unchecked development.

At the heart of the story lies Molly Forbes, a spirited 92-year-old widow. Her life is thrown into disarray when the Trump Organization builds a road through her property, severing the water well that had sustained her for decades. The documentary paints a vivid picture of her struggle - collecting rainwater in buckets, facing the indignity of having to rely on bottled water for basic needs. Molly's story becomes emblematic of the wider impact on the community. Local residents report disrupted water supplies, raising concerns about the long-term viability of their homes and livelihoods.

The conflict escalates into a legal battle, with residents like David Milne fighting for their right to access water. The documentary features Andy Wightman, a member of the Scottish Parliament, who sheds light on the legal framework protecting water rights in Scotland. This legal struggle underscores the stark contrast between the residents, ordinary people fighting for their way of life, and the Trump Organization, a powerful corporation seemingly willing to prioritize profit over the well-being of a community.

"You've Been Trumped Too" masterfully utilizes contrasting portrayals to highlight the central conflict. The residents' plight evokes empathy - they are portrayed as grounded, honest individuals facing an impossible situation. Juxtaposed against this is the image of Donald Trump himself. The documentary showcases moments where Trump boasts about the "perfect" water supply near the golf course, a claim demonstrably contradicted by the residents' experiences. This portrayal reinforces the image of Trump as an out-of-touch billionaire, unconcerned with the consequences of his actions.

The documentary doesn't shy away from venturing beyond the immediate conflict. It draws a parallel between the residents' struggle and the then-impending 2016 US presidential election. The suggestion is clear: Trump's disregard for the well-being of a small Scottish community might be a microcosm of how he would approach global issues as president.

The initially local story of environmental disruption transforms into a cautionary tale with far-reaching implications. "You've Been Trumped Too" serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of unchecked development and the importance of holding the powerful accountable for their actions.