The Unforeseen 2008
Directed by
Laura Dunn
Made by
Cinema Guild
Plot Summary
A thought-provoking documentary unfolds by exploring the journey of Gary Bradley, a real estate developer from Texas. Growing up on a farm, he learns early on about his reliance on nature. Eager to break free from this dependence, he ventures into the bustling city of Austin, Texas, pursuing a career as a real estate developer. In his own words, > “I wanted a life I had more control over.”
Embracing his new role, he perceives raw land as “a blank canvas” where he aspires to create a magnificent masterpiece, specifically, a subdivision. However, fate deals him a harsh blow: the Savings and Loan industry collapses, leaving him drowning in significant debt. To compound his misfortunes, an emerging environmental movement directly challenges his plans, fearing that his developments could contaminate the pristine waters of Barton Springs, one of North America’s largest spring-fed swimming areas.
In this intricate narrative, the film broadens its scope with insights from Robert Redford, who reminisces about his childhood experiences in Austin, notably learning to swim in Barton Springs. He reflects on how these early lessons unveiled the beauty of the natural world to him. Redford highlights a pressing concern: much of America’s natural heritage is under siege from developers and their supporters, driven solely by short-term gains.
As the plot thickens, landowners and homebuilders rally together, hiring a lobbyist to navigate the legislative waters and dismantle the environmental protections. Their efforts bear fruit, leading to the passage of new legislation that allows the development of over 10,000 acres despite environmentalist opposition. However, the tide turns as Ann Richards, the Democratic governor of Texas, vetoes the bill, infuriating the lobbyists and landowners.
Not backing down, development advocates pivot to a fresh strategy, framing the struggle as a matter of “property rights” and successfully garnering support from Texas ranchers and farmers against the environmentalists. This shift culminates in the election of George Bush to the governorship, with Karl Rove as his chief strategist, orchestrating a surprising upset over the beloved Ann Richards. Bush’s administration eventually paves the way for the controversial “House Bill 1704.” As the lobbyist chillingly asserts, > “It erased much of what the environmentalists had accomplished… The legislature burned Austin to the ground.”
The story arcs back to Gary Bradley, who now finds himself embroiled in a federal bankruptcy case, burdened with over $80 million in debt and facing allegations of bankruptcy fraud. Auditory echoes from the courtroom blend with visuals of development and pastoral landscapes as he contemplates his strengths and failures. The narrative reaches its emotional apex when he reflects on the heart-wrenching experience of burying his mother during this tumultuous period.
The film’s poignant conclusion captures the expansive landscapes of West Texas while Bradley reveals how his life has been stripped bare. He grapples with profound existential anguish, expressing that when one has lost everything, the struggle becomes not just with material loss but with “dealing with God.” In this moment of vulnerability, he comes to terms with his fragility, recognizing his intrinsic dependence on forces beyond his control. The documentary ends with journalist William Greider offering a contemplative thought that perhaps, after two centuries of relentless development, Americans have finally reached a pivotal moment to mature and resolve to not “leave a wreck behind us when we’re gone.”
Timeline
Growing Up on the Farm
Gary Bradley, the film's central figure, grows up on a farm in Texas, where he learns about the importance of nature and his reliance on it. This formative experience shapes his aspirations and career choices as he seeks a life detached from agricultural hardship.
Move to Austin
Driven by the desire for greater control over his life, Gary moves to the bustling city of Austin, Texas. His transition marks a significant shift from his rural upbringing to the dynamic world of real estate development.
Perception of Land
In Austin, Gary views raw land as a 'blank canvas' for his ambitious real estate projects, particularly aiming to develop a subdivision. This perspective fuels his passion for creation and economic opportunity in an urban setting.
Collapse of the Savings and Loan Industry
Disaster strikes when the Savings and Loan industry collapses, plunging Gary into a deep financial crisis characterized by over $80 million in debt. This collapse not only affects his projects but also unsettles the entire real estate market.
Environmental Movement Emerges
Gary faces increasing resistance as an environmental movement emerges to protect the pristine waters of Barton Springs. This movement highlights the potential environmental costs of his developments, creating significant conflict between economic growth and ecological preservation.
Robert Redford's Reflection
The documentary includes insights from Robert Redford, who recalls his childhood in Austin and learning to swim at Barton Springs. His reflections emphasize the beauty of nature and criticize the rampant development threatening such natural treasures.
Lobbying for Development
In response to environmental challenges, landowners and homebuilders hire a lobbyist to target and dismantle environmental protections. Their actions lead to new legislation allowing development on over 10,000 acres, sparking outrage among environmentalists.
Governor's Veto
The tide turns when Ann Richards, the Democratic governor of Texas, vetoes the controversial bill aimed at facilitating development. This pivotal moment infuriates the lobbyists and landowners who had anticipated a green light for their projects.
Framing the Debate
Development advocates shift their strategy, framing their struggle as a matter of property rights. This rebranding garners support from Texas ranchers and farmers, creating a broader coalition against the environmentalists.
George Bush's Election
The political landscape changes dramatically with the election of George Bush to the governorship, aided by chief strategist Karl Rove. Bush’s victory signals a new era, where development interests align with governmental power against environmental regulations.
House Bill 1704
Bush's administration champions the controversial 'House Bill 1704', which severely undermines the achievements of environmentalists. This legislation represents a significant setback for those advocating for the protection of natural environments.
Gary's Bankruptcy Case
Amid the growing turmoil, Gary Bradley finds himself in a federal bankruptcy case, facing serious allegations of fraud while buried under his massive debt. The stress of the situation is compounded as he grapples with the collapse of his dreams.
Personal Loss
During this chaotic period, Gary faces a profound personal tragedy—the death of his mother. This heart-wrenching experience adds to his existential angst and highlights his vulnerability during a time of overwhelming despair.
Reflection on Life
With his life in disarray, Gary reflects on his struggles and the nature of his existence. He expresses a deep sense of vulnerability and the realization that losing everything leads him to confront larger existential questions about dependency and control.
Greider's Closing Thoughts
The documentary concludes with journalist William Greider offering a poignant insight into America's developmental trajectory. He suggests that the nation stands at a critical juncture, encouraging a collective responsibility to ensure the preservation of the natural world for future generations.
Characters
Gary Bradley
Gary Bradley embodies the archetypal driven entrepreneur striving for success in the real estate world. His journey from the simplicity of farm life to the complexities of urban development illustrates a clash between ambition and the moral implications of his actions. As he grapples with failure and loss, his character reveals deep vulnerabilities and a search for redemption.
Robert Redford
In his recollections, Robert Redford serves as a voice of conscious awareness, reflecting on the beauty of nature experienced in his youth. His insights offer a poignant contrast to the narrative of development, emphasizing the importance of protecting natural spaces. Redford's commentary fosters a deeper understanding of the stakes involved in the struggle between progress and preservation.
George Bush
George Bush's political rise and decisions symbolize the power of lobbying and the impact of political strategy on environmental legislation. His character represents the shifting tides of governance where property rights take precedence over environmental concerns, igniting controversial debates in the legislature. His leadership ultimately shapes the path for significant developmental changes in Texas.
William Greider
William Greider offers reflective commentary in the film, prompting viewers to think critically about the consequences of relentless development. He emphasizes the collective responsibility of society to reconcile growth with environmental preservation. His insights serve as a moral compass, urging a more thoughtful approach to the legacy left for future generations.
Setting
Time period
Late 20th Century
The late 20th century was marked by significant social and environmental movements across the United States. This era saw a rise in awareness regarding environmental protection and the impacts of urban development on natural ecosystems. Political changes, such as the election of figures like George Bush, also shifted the balance of power in environmental legislation.
Location
Austin, Texas, West Texas
Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant culture, bustling urban life, and significant environmental concerns. The city, famous for its music scene and technological growth, faces challenges from developers looking to transform its natural landscapes. West Texas features expansive, arid landscapes that highlight the contrast between urban development and untouched nature.
Themes
🌱
Environmentalism
The film explores the tension between development and environmental protection, shedding light on the impact of industrialization on pristine natural resources. It brings to the forefront the struggle of environmentalists against developers and politicians who prioritize short-term gains over long-term sustainability. The narrative underscores the importance of protecting natural heritage amid societal pressures for advancement.
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Development vs. Nature
The conflict between real estate development and environmental preservation is central to the story. Gary Bradley's ambitions clash with a burgeoning environmental movement, showcasing the complexities of progress. The film illustrates how the desire for control and progress often leads to devastating consequences for the land and communities.
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Existential Struggles
A theme of personal loss and existential reflection permeates the film. Gary Bradley confronts monumental debts and personal tragedy, ultimately coming to terms with his vulnerabilities. This journey of self-discovery raises questions about identity, dependency on external forces, and the meaning of success in the face of overwhelming challenges.
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