Water is a finite commodity for which humans have seemingly infinite need. And, whenever there is need, there is someone looking to capitalize. Whether it’s in Soweto, South Africa, the slums of Buenos Aires, or pleasant retirement and recreation communities in California, supplying people with water has become a profitable business. Residents of Oakhurst, California, may purchase their water in a clean, clear plastic jug from “The Quality Water Store;” while a slum-dweller in South Africa uses a discarded plastic pail to scoop water from standing pools, often disgustingly polluted. Dead in the Water investigates the results of privatization efforts in several key locations, and chronicles what many see as the first in a wave of battles in years to come.