A new era of cinema: Exploring ‘Harvest’ by Athina Rachel Tsangari
A return to the past with a modern twist
It’s been nearly a decade since Athina Rachel Tsangari graced us with her sharp satire, “Chevalier,” which dissected the fragile male ego with surgical precision. Now, Tsangari returns with “Harvest,” a film that marks several firsts for the Greek director: her first English-language project, her first literary adaptation, and her most ambitious production to date. Set in a bygone era, “Harvest” delves into the destructive forces of patriarchy and capitalism, themes that resonate deeply in today’s world.
A timeless setting
The film’s setting is deliberately ambiguous, much like the novel it adapts. Shot in the rugged landscapes of Argyllshire, Scotland, the story could unfold in the 17th or early 18th century, a period before the Industrial Revolution but after the privatization of common lands. This indeterminate backdrop serves to highlight the entrenched customs of a community resistant to change. The production design, crafted by Nathan Parker, is a marvel of authenticity, with weathered timber structures held together by mud and mold, evoking a sense of timelessness.
The spark that ignites chaos
The story kicks off when a stable in the village mysteriously catches fire, setting off a chain of events that disrupts the community’s fragile equilibrium. Master Kent, played by Harry Melling, is a lord who prefers a more communal approach to land ownership, a legacy from his late wife. However, the villagers demand retribution for the fire, and three drifters—two men and one woman—are scapegoated without evidence. The men are pilloried, while the woman, Mistress Beldam (Thalissa Teixeira), faces a humiliating head shave and accusations of witchcraft.
The lone voice of reason
Caleb Landry Jones portrays Thirsk, a misfit who straddles the line between the villagers and the gentry. Raised alongside Kent, Thirsk is a nature lover who finds himself increasingly isolated as tensions rise. His unique position makes him a reluctant mediator, but his loyalty to the land leaves him without allies when conflicts escalate.
Newcomers and new conflicts
The arrival of two outsiders further destabilizes the village. Earle, a cartographer played by Arinzé Kene, is hired to map the region, giving names to previously unnamed landmarks. Jordan, portrayed by Frank Dillane, is Kent’s cousin and the estate’s official heir. Jordan’s vision for the land is starkly different from Kent’s, aiming to transform it into a profitable livestock farm. His cold demeanor and modern ideas make him a clear antagonist in a story where most characters oscillate between victimhood and cruelty.
The imperious dynamics of ownership
While the film features strong female characters like Rosy McEwen and Thalissa Teixeira, “Harvest” primarily explores the masculine dynamics of ownership and competition. The narrative underscores how personal wealth often trumps communal well-being, a theme that remains relevant in today’s world, especially in the context of climate change. Tsangari poignantly dedicates the film to her grandparents, whose farmland in Greece has been replaced by a highway.
A rich tapestry of storytelling
Despite its heavy themes, “Harvest” is not a dour moral tale. The film is imbued with a dark humor that critiques class conflict and outdated traditions. A recurring joke involves the custom of slamming children’s heads on a boundary-marking stone, a practice that seems absurd in modern times. The storytelling is frenetic and engaging, ensuring that the film never feels sluggish.
A visual and auditory feast
“Harvest” excels in world-building, creating a vivid and immersive environment. The production design, costumes, and cinematography work in harmony to transport viewers to another time. Sean Price Williams’ cinematography captures the beauty and brutality of the British summer, while Kirsty Halliday’s costumes add texture and authenticity to the characters. The film’s visuals are alive with the earthy, unromantic reality of rural life, a paradise lost to the march of progress.
Final thoughts
“Harvest” is a compelling exploration of a community on the brink of change, a story that resonates with contemporary issues of ownership, class, and environmental degradation. Tsangari’s film is a testament to the power of cinema to reflect and critique society, offering a richly textured narrative that lingers long after the credits roll.
For those eager to dive deeper into this cinematic experience, check out the Harvest trailer for a glimpse into Tsangari’s masterful storytelling.