In the ever-changing tapestry of farming, a new era has dawned. What was once seen as an occupation rooted in honest labor, chance encounters, and favorable conditions has now transformed into a realm of boundless innovation and cutting-edge techniques. The modern farmer’s journey is an exhilarating departure from the past, where tradition dances hand in hand with technological marvels. Undoubtedly, the pursuit of farming still demands unwavering dedication, unyielding hours, and precious few moments of respite. Yet, amidst the toil, a shadow of solitude can descend upon those who tread this solitary path. The relentless rhythm of working from the first rays of sunrise to the fading glow of sunset can bear heavily upon the spirit, particularly when there are no helping hands to share the burden or encouraging voices to uplift the weary heart.
Amidst the tender grief of losing his beloved wife, Charles Carson found solace in the presence of his ailing elderly relatives who relied on his care. As the seasons unfolded in the Somerset countryside, a newfound creative flame sparked within this resilient farmer. Embracing the medium of home videos, Charles embarked on a remarkable journey of self-expression, crafting a film in 1991 that defied conventions and beckoned viewers into a world of unparalleled wonder. Now, this extraordinary man and his artistic masterpiece take center stage in the documentary A Life on the Farm.
This new film is a true testament to the creative brilliance of Charles Carson, an English farmer who forged a profound connection with audiences worldwide. This extraordinary documentary delves into the realm of Charles’ everyday existence, offering a mesmerizing glimpse into his world that was unearthed following his passing and has since garnered acclaim across six continents. Many people are fixated on how Charles deals with death. He believes that, as a farmer, one cannot afford to be sensitive about it because it’s a natural part of life. However, most of his audience is not accustomed to this perspective. When Charles says his final goodbyes to his cherished cat and later his mother, he ponders the social and psychological purposes behind funeral traditions. Since Charles lacks companions to share these experiences with, he takes his deceased mother to meet the cows that were familiar with her. While this may seem peculiar in a society that has strong death taboos and struggles with handling grief, it is actually quite ordinary in other parts of the world.
In the tapestry of life, we find not only the solemn embrace of death but also the wondrous dance of birth. Within Charles’ world, the arrival of new life fills the air with joyous exultation, becoming a precious opportunity for him to enlighten his audience. Amidst the tapestry, a remarkable tale unfolds—an ancient cow, aged gracefully at 26, defying the odds of time. In the realm of farming, where bovine companions rarely exceed the tender age of six, her resilience stands as a testament to Charles’ farming prowess. And when the momentous hour arrives, as the cow ushers a new life into the world, Charles reverently presents the placenta, a delicate marvel of nature’s artistry, to his viewers. Though some may recoil, their city-dwelling hearts unaccustomed to the raw splendors of rural existence, Charles, the farmer, understands the gentle dance between enchantment and unease, ever embracing the harmonious symphony of life’s intricate melodies.
Oscar Harding has embarked on this remarkable film. Departing from his previous works, Harding delves into the realm of found footage, where existing video material is repurposed to create a new and captivating narrative. In this instance, the tape at the heart of the film is none other than Charles Carson’s own footage, where he introduces viewers to his unconventional farm. The resulting concoction is a twisted, uproariously funny, and delightfully dark exploration. As both director and our guide into Charles Carson’s world, Harding becomes the lens through which we gain insight into the enigmatic farmer’s misadventures on Coombe End Farm. Remarkably, Harding recalls catching a glimpse of this film when he was merely 10 years old, only to complete his first full viewing a decade later. The fact that Carson happened to be a neighbor of Harding’s grandfather adds an extra layer of delicious intrigue to the story.
Within the depths of morbid humor and macabre delight lie the moments where Carson introduces us to his deceased parents, Stan and Millie Carson, presented as seemingly still-life dolls. Their aged appearance, resembling the wrinkled countenance of the Crypt Keeper, adds to the eerie charm. The adoration poured upon them in their respective photo montages evokes both touching sentiment and unsettling fascination. These scenes are adorned with darkness, captivating, and leave an indelible mark. The juxtaposition of such moments with footage of a cow birthing twins and a solemn funeral for a beloved six-year-old cat creates a tapestry of fantastic rustic imagery.
The interviews in the documentary deserve a notable mention. A carefully selected group of found footage curators, an undertaker, a psychiatrist, and various neighbors and friends of Charles Carson contribute extensively to the 75-minute runtime. Their insights and perspectives provide invaluable context to the unfolding narrative. Particularly captivating are the conversations with Carson’s acquaintances residing in the village of Huish Champflower and the neighboring parish of Wiveliscombe. These discussions exude an earthy, country sensibility, seamlessly intertwined with Mr. Carson’s archival footage, forging a compelling and harmonious blend.
A Life On The Farm is currently available On Demand courtesy of Drafthouse Films.
A Life On The Farm is a darkly hilarious and enchanting documentary
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GVN Rating 7
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It all started when I was a kid watching Saturday morning cartoons like the Spider-Man: Animated Series and Batman. Since then I’ve been hooked to the world of pop culture. Huge movie lover from French New Wave, to the latest blockbusters, I love them all. Huge Star Wars and Marvel geek. When I’m free from typing away at my computer, you can usually catch me watching a good flick or reading the next best comic. Come geek out with me on Twitter @somedudecody.