Sustainable Fairfax Film Night: The Story of Stuff and Director Discussion

The holidays are approaching. What should I buy for mom? Should I get Jim that hat, or do you think he’d rather have a set of coasters? I bought Liz a sweater last year; this year I should definitely find her something else. As gift ideas creep into our thoughts, it is easy for our imaginations to get wrapped up in the idea of things and products tied with little bows.

When searching for a meaningful gift, is stuff always the answer?

The Story of Stuff film series examines consumer culture and its effects on the planet. Many consumer goods are designed to become obsolete within a matter of years, and even those that are built to last are perceived to be disposable. Because the true manufacturing costs of our consumer goods are externalized, we are able to afford a lot of stuff. Who pays the true price for all the stuff we buy? Not us, usually. Someone else, somewhere else. And where does all our stuff go when we decide we are done with it and throw it in the trash?

As we search for heartfelt gifts for our loved ones, there are many options that don’t involve a trip to the mall.

Perhaps a spa treatment for Mom and some handmade coasters Jim? What about theater tickets for Margaret? How much stuff really needs to be bought?

Perhaps this is the season to explore some gift possibilities outside the wrapped box.

Please come to the showing of five lively films from the Story of Stuff series on Friday, November 14, at the Fairfax Women’s Club, 46 Park Road in Fairfax at 7:30pm. Director Louis Fox will speak after the films to talk about the making of this wildly popular series.

Happy Holidays!

--Sustainable Fairfax Intern Ruby Derovan