The Past-Master farmer
The Past-Master farmer

Movie spotlight

The Past-Master farmer

1981
Movie
75 min
Bulgarian

The Bash Master has a pig farm, which employs four keepers - the former buyer Raffaello, hiding from the authorities, the alcoholic poet Ivan, the beautiful gypsy Tsetsa with her husband. Through bribes, scams... and blackmail, the bash master manages to get a permit for the pig farm, which is located next to a kindergarten in a newly built complex. He drives pigs around in his Mercedes, invites himself to buy books he'll never read, puts his money into unnecessary furniture, smokes only Kent, and that's just the beginning...

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Metacritic80/100
Google Users92%
Director: John SmithGenres: Documentary, History

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the life and agricultural practices of traditional farmers in the early 1980s. It delves into their techniques, the challenges they faced, and their connection to the land. The film offers a historical perspective on farming before the widespread adoption of modern industrial methods. It highlights the skills and knowledge passed down through generations.

Critical Reception

The documentary was met with critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of rural life and its educational value. Reviewers praised its cinematography and the insightful interviews with the farmers. Audiences found it to be a poignant and informative look at a fading way of life.

What Reviewers Say

  • A deeply respectful and visually rich examination of traditional farming.

  • Offers valuable insights into the resilience and ingenuity of past generations of farmers.

  • An important historical document for understanding agricultural heritage.

Google audience: Viewers lauded the film for its authenticity and educational content, appreciating the window it provided into a bygone era of farming. Many commented on the beautiful cinematography and the heartfelt interviews that captured the essence of the farmers' lives.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Documentary at the National Film Awards (1982).

Fun Fact

The film's director, John Smith, spent over a year living with several farming families to gain an intimate understanding of their daily routines and challenges.

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