Written by Maggie Maize, Photo courtesy of IMDB
Plumes of wildfire smoke surround Apricot Lane Farms in Moorpark, California. This opening scene in “The Biggest Little Farm” couldn’t be timelier, as just this week, a fire came within 300 yards of John and Molly Chester’s 200-acre farm.
We jump back to the farm’s beginning then follow its eight-year story chronologically. However, the wind and fire from that first scene hang with me even when the tone quickly turns whimsical.
This documentary is special. John Chester, who also writes and directs the film, uses stunning cinematic elements to enrich the focus on relationships and regenerative farming.
This film has me feeling nostalgic for my own California farm. It reminds me of the joys and challenges of raising chickens, ducks and pigs, [even though mine was a potbelly pig, who didn’t birth 17 piglets like Emma]. But you didn’t need to grow up on a farm to sense the grandeur. It lets everyone in on the magic anyway. Chester balances out the farm’s idealistic oasis qualities by also including hardships, doubts and uncertainties.
Deeper and deeper into the film, Apricot Lane Farm’s team gets more familiar. They connect viewers to the treasures and fear of life dying by remaining focused on the farm’s story. The playful yet authentic writing makes me want to know the farm in real life.
Because the film is so strong, I see one thread that stretches a bit thin. At one point, Chester says their dog, Todd, sees intricacies on the farm. Yes, Todd has beautiful blue, knowing eyes. That said, it appeared to be a spot where Chester drifted from the authentic details for the storyline’s sake.
This is not the stagnant type of documentary with interviews set against blank walls. No, this documentary blooms with life; even while the dirt is dead, we sense life. Part of that comes from getting to experience the days with the team. Other times, it comes from the camera observing critters in ways that “let us in” on private moments. These quiet, away-from-people shots are what recharge us for the problems, which no doubt will pop up.
Chester’s “teaching by example” approach, allows regenerative farming to soak in without coming off aggressive. He dedicates a lot of screen time to problem-solving. “Observation followed by creativity is becoming our greatest ally,” Chester said.
The film shows why and how plant diversity is the future. Chester applies variety to filming, as well. The documentary includes aerial shots, photos, footage from phones and night cameras as well as crystal clear clips. Subjects and weather conditions provide even more visual assortment. “The Biggest Little Farm” shows how humans, animals and land work together complexly and can slowly, hopefully, create self-regulating ecosystems. It shows whether you’re on lots of land or only a little, you can create your own magic and hope it doesn’t burn.
