Mountains of Gold is a unique chronicle of a nomadic, hunter/gatherer society undergoing the profound change to a money economy over a 10-year period. This tribe was first discovered by Australian explorers in 1938. Original footage shows their amazement at seeing their "white ancestors" in their midst.

Until 1984 when gold was discovered on their land, the Ipini's wealth was still being measured by how many wives and pigs they had. When they decided to sell their land to the gold mining company, their way of life would change forever.

The mining company began the long and arduous process of bargaining with the Ipini who were surprisingly skilled as negotiators. In the end the Ipini became among the wealthiest people in Papua New Guinea. Many spent their new found money quickly—on cars, alcohol, and women. Living in suburban style houses changed the tradition of the men living together, apart from their families. The population burgeoned and shopping and church activities replaced time spent obtaining food. A social worker was needed to help them adjust.

Association of Asian Studies, 1995
Bronze Apple, National Educational Film & Video Festival, 1995