‘Peter and the Farm’ Follows Organic Farmer in Absorbing Documentary

Amanda Nolan

A documentary about an organic farmer could be a cozy homespun depiction of cute animals, plucky spirit, crafty mason jars, and fresh produce ready for market. “Peter and the Farm” is not that movie. Instead there are heartbreaking tales and signs of decay, and the mason jars are empty from hard drinking. The animals are cute, though.

That makes the film’s startling first segment of a sheep’s slaughter tough to watch, but it sets the unflinching and visceral tone of the film. Like the unfortunate stripped sheep, the audience meets the vulnerable core of Peter Dunning, a farmer who has lived on the Mile Hill Farm in Vermont for more than 35 years. Gruff and bearded, Peter has a distinctive perspective and a special charisma that somehow makes baling hay compelling. It’s a portrait of a complex figure, both humorous and tragic.

The documentary sees Peter through four seasons. While the audience tours the farm, they also get to know Peter via his stories and musings. An orphan who joined the Marines, Peter had dreams of becoming an artist. He majored in art and minored in sculpture, only to have his hand mangled in a logging accident. Peter removes his glove to reveal a gnarled hand, but he still has a surprising amount of dexterity; he continues to create art and write poetry. He’s part hippie philosopher and part rugged man of the land, but he notes it was more important for him to fit in with the farmer community.

At one time, the farm thrived as his family lived together and combined their talents and resources. While not explicitly said, it seems as though Peter’s alcoholism and self-destructive behavior forced people away. Whatever the situation, Peter now works the farm alone with the animals keeping him company.

While this may sound utterly depressing, “Peter and the Farm” is an entertaining and often funny film, drawing the viewer in with its offbeat subject. There’s not a firm plot, and Peter is still left as a somewhat mysterious figure when the credits roll. It’s a snapshot of a loner who cares for the sheep, plows the dirt, works the machines, and brews cider. Some of the most absorbing moments are shots of the farm’s beauty (and its sometimes ugly charm) as Peter’s voice-off recites his prose. He has a love/hate relationship with his home. At times he feels lucky to be surrounded by a pastoral paradise, but other times he feels trapped. But where else would he go? He says he has become the farm.

Director Tony Stone and his team, including co-cinematographer Nathan Corbin and editor Maxwell Paparella, present striking shots of the weathered farm and the rural splendor around it with an excellent use of lighting. (Stone’s wife, bassist Melissa Auf der Maur, also works on the film as a producer). The grungy-gorgeous visuals and ambient music have a sort of indie vibe, and portrays Peter in an interesting way. Although it shows his stubbornness and other challenges, the film does not mock Peter; instead it offers a sympathetic look that incites wonder, laughter and maybe even a few tears. “Peter and the Farm” is a noteworthy achievement in the documentary genre.

“Peter and the Farm” opens in select theaters, On Demand, Amazon Video, and iTunes on Nov. 4.