Movie spotlight
You Think the Earth Is a Dead Thing
Just one of the many far-reaching impacts of the slave trade on human history is on agriculture and horticulture. While the French plantation owners on the Caribbean island of Martinique had their gardens laid out, Versailles-style, their enslaved workers continued their tradition of using medicinal wild herbs. Nowadays these herbs represent one of several resources through which the people of Martinique counter the health and ecological ravage caused by the use of pesticides on the banana plantations. Farmers are reclaiming uncultivated lands to grow indigenous vegetables, without any industrial pesticides; they fight boldly for simple biodiversity.
Insights
Plot Summary
A gripping drama set in Cornwall, this film follows a group of isolated individuals navigating their personal struggles against a backdrop of shared hardship. As they grapple with secrets and unspoken tensions, their lives become increasingly intertwined, leading to unexpected revelations and emotional confrontations.
Critical Reception
Critically acclaimed for its raw authenticity and powerful performances, 'You Think the Earth Is a Dead Thing' has been praised for its unique cinematic style and poignant exploration of human relationships. Reviewers lauded director Mark Jenkin's ability to craft a deeply resonant and immersive experience.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its stark realism and unflinching portrayal of working-class lives.
Lauded for its distinctive, lo-fi aesthetic that enhances the film's atmospheric quality.
Commended for its compelling performances and emotionally charged narrative.
Google audience: Viewers appreciated the film's authentic depiction of Cornish life and its powerful, emotional storytelling. Many found the unique visual style captivating, though some noted its challenging and slow-paced nature.
Awards & Accolades
Won the Golden Leopard at the Locarno Film Festival.
Fun Fact
The film was shot on 16mm film stock, contributing to its distinctive, grainy aesthetic and retro feel, a signature of director Mark Jenkin's work.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources