How to Blow Up a Pipeline

Xochitl, a passionate young activist, cuts the tires of an SUV and leaves behind a bright yellow manifesto. This act of protest serves as the catalyst for her radical environmental journey, highlighting her deep frustrations with current activism methods.

In Long Beach, California, Xochitl and her friend Theo observe the severe impacts of climate change on their community. The stark realities of pollution and environmental degradation become evident, igniting their determination to fight for change.

Xochitl suffers a devastating personal loss when her mother dies during a harsh heat wave exacerbated by local pollution. This tragedy galvanizes her commitment to environmental activism, fueling her urgency for more impactful actions.

Theo receives a terminal cancer diagnosis, attributed to the prevailing pollution in their environment. His condition not only intensifies the urgency for radical change but also deepens the emotional stakes for both him and Xochitl.

Xochitl and Theo manage to convince Alisha and others to join them in planning an act of environmental terrorism. They gather a diverse group, each member bringing unique motivations and skills, united by a common cause.

The group meets Dwayne, who harbors resentment towards an oil company that took his ancestral land through eminent domain. His personal stake in the fight for justice adds a powerful narrative to their campaign against corporate greed.

Michael, a Native American from North Dakota, joins the group as a self-taught explosives expert. His knowledge is crucial as they strategize their plan to sabotage the oil pipeline, leveraging his skills for their cause.

The group devises a plan to detonate homemade explosives at a section of the oil pipeline constructed on Dwayne's land. They hope this action will disrupt operations and send a powerful message regarding the environmental crisis.

Gathered at a remote cabin, the group begins the process of creating explosives. Tensions rise as they face various setbacks, testing their resolve and commitment to their radical plans.

During the execution of their plan, the group faces unexpected challenges, including a surveillance drone and an accident that injures Alisha. Despite these setbacks, they stay committed to their mission of environmental sabotage.

The group successfully detonates the explosives, destroying a segment of the oil pipeline. This act of sabotage is not only a victory for their cause but also a cry for others to join their fight against environmental degradation.

Following the explosion, the group scatters to avoid capture. Rowan tends to Logan, who was injured during their escapade, showcasing the immediate aftermath of their decision to engage in radical action.

Unbeknownst to the others, Rowan is an FBI informant, strategically included by Xochitl to misdirect authorities. This twist reveals a complex layer of trust and deception as they navigate the repercussions of their actions.

Theo and Xochitl are apprehended and sentenced to lengthy prison terms for their involvement in the sabotage. Their punishment emphasizes the risks associated with radical activism and the personal costs of their fight for justice.

Inspired by Theo and Xochitl's acts of defiance, a new wave of activists emerges. Notably, a trio attempts a similar sabotage in Miami, highlighting the enduring impact of the manifesto that began with Xochitl.