This Italian film written and directed by Ermanno Olmi tells the story of a community of poor farmers working for s landowner who also owns their housing complex and most of their livestock. Over the course of three hours various plot lines unfold. There's the farmer who sends his son to school, even if it means not having him around to help. There's the widow struggling to take care of her children. There's a love story between a girl and a neighbor farmer boy. And there's a grandfather's plan to grow tomatoes out of season. Mostly though this is about a community and how they survive and live with one another while at the same time remaining apart. Don't let the long running time turn you away, it doesn't feel long at all and it kept me captivated. The naturalism created for this film is stark and appropriate, it will take you back in time and place you right into a bleak but beautiful world. Bravo. Grade: A
Warning: for those who dislike seeing the killing of animals than prepare yourself for a scene where a goose is beheaded and a pig is butchered. I personally don't have a problem with either of these activities nor the choice to include them in a work of art since it is honest and for the purpose of food. Those who become squeamish or angry should become vegetarian (if they aren't already) or question where the meat from their next meal comes from.
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