I recently had the pleasure to screen The Gardener for free. Al thoughts expressed in this post are my own and have not been influenced.
THE GARDENER, a documentary film from Gravitas Ventures
The Gardener opened in New York last month and screenings are now taking place throughout the country in limited engagements.
About The Gardener:
The new documentary The Gardener reflects on the meaning of gardening and its impacts on our lives. Shortly before his passing at the age of 86, influential gardener and horticulturist Frank Cabot recounted his personal quest for perfection at Les Quatre Vents, his twenty-acre English style garden and summer estate that was opened to a film crew for the first time ever in 2009. Nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Charlevoix County in Quebec, Les Quatre Vents has become one of the world’s foremost private gardens. Created over 75 years and three generations, it is an enchanted place of beauty and surprise, a horticultural masterpiece of the 21st century. Through the words of Cabot and his family, and with the participation of gardening experts and writers, the film looks back at this remarkable man’s personal story and the artistic philosophy that gave birth to one of the greatest gardens in the world.
Take a look:
Trailer The Gardener from Sébastien Chabot on Vimeo.
My thoughts:
The first time I saw the trailer, it sparked my interest. I had never heard of Frank Cabot or these gardens, but I was fascinated to hear his story. There is something magical and uplifting to hear from someone who has created something so spectacular. A true artist, Frank Cabot talks about his process and hopes for his garden. I couldn’t help, but feel inspired to get out on my land and create something special for myself. My skills in the garden are limited, but I was so moved. I still am.
In the film we actually get to hear from Frank himself, and I find the viewer lucky to hear from the man himself before he passed. His voice, stories, and his wife Ann’s, help take you to this amazing place. It’s not just a film about a gardener or a garden, but a film about a life lived full of passion for the love of beauty and the land.
THE GARDENER was written and directed by Sebastien Chabot. Presented by Productions Julie Dalbec, a Films Reflektor Production, in collaboration with Peak Media. Produced by Sebastien Chabot, Julie Dalbec, Michael Slack. Original music by Luc St-Pierre. Edited by Auelie Govaere. Based on an original idea by Sebastien Chabot and Michael Slack. With participation of Raynald Bergeron, Anne P. Cabot, Colin Cabot, Francis H. Cabot, Adrienne Clarkson, Jean Des Gagniers, Father Louis Genest CSV, Penelope Hobhouse, Tim Richardson. Distributed by Gravitas Ventures.
OPENING DATES & CITIES:
May 20th Polk Theater, Lakeland, Florida
June 7th Aperture Cinema, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
June 9th Bedford Playhouse, Bedford, New York
Disclosure: I recently had the pleasure to screen The Gardener for free. Al thoughts expressed in this post are my own and have not been influenced.
Rebecca Bryant says
I enjoy a good documentary. I enjoy learning about people and places. This one seems like it would be interesting. I must admit I have not heard of this gentleman so I would be interested in seeing this.
Keikilani says
I am in love with the gardens of the old houses. They were truly works of art. I am going to add this documentary to my must watch list. I think I would really enjoy it.
Emily says
I have not heard of this movie documentary before, it seems really interesting. I have turned into a big time gardener and am excited to start to see my flowers bloom this summer! Learning more stories like this and about the journey people take to be where they are is always interesting to me.
Lois Alter Mark says
How have I never heard of this?! I love documentaries, and this one sounds so interesting. My husband – the gardener in the family – would love this, too!
Louise says
Aww, this sounds like such a special film. I wonder if it will be released here in the UK? If not, hopefully we’ll get to see it through Netflix or something 🙂
Louise x
Kristin says
I love a good doc and am totally intrigued now! Thanks for sharing this one with us!
Marysa says
What a neat documentary. I work in a greenhouse, and I love working with plants. I would like to check out this film sometime, I think I would enjoy it.
Kimberly Rambles says
I hadn’t heard of this movie before and now I hope to see it too! While it isn’t about the actual gardening, the beauty and the spirit behind it, and the rather secret garden sounds enchanting!