Shady Grove Farm U.P. - Quest For Food Freedom

Screened at FCFF 2023

Film Synopsis

When Randy experienced a life-changing injury at work, he turned to farming to help himself heal and stay active. The Buchlers farm with integrity and practice permaculture on their beautiful homestead in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. In 2009, their right to farm was challenged by their township. This is where the quest for food freedom began.

Related Films

25 Weeks: A Wisconsin Pizza Harvest

2021 • USA • 56 min • Charlie Tennessen

Family Friendly, First Time Filmmaker, Filmmaker in Attendance

The true story of an ancient crop, a farmer, and a pizza, this self-made film follows one season of wheat production on Anarchy Acres, a tiny farm in Wisconsin. One passionate farmer is working to re-create the flavors of 19th century Wisconsin by growing out rare wheat cultivars from samples held in seed banks. Anarchy Acres uses a team of miniature donkeys for some field work, and pays close attention to sustainable farming practices. Food, the environment, and mutual respect are lived out in a millennia-old cycle.

It's Time

2024 • USA • 4 min • Jason Lindsey and Scott Krahn

Filmmaker in Attendance, Subject in Attendance, Michigan Premiere, World Premiere, Staff Pick

“It’s Time” is a poetic 3-minute film set in early spring Illinois. Through stunning visuals and lyrical narration, it gives voice to nature. The tree’s awakening becomes a metaphor for environmental awareness. This cinematic ode aspires to plant seeds of change, encouraging viewers to listen to nature’s whispered warnings and become stewards of our shared environment.

To Be a Good Home

2024 • USA • 16 min • Evan Flom

Filmmaker in Attendance, Family Friendly, Michigan Premiere, First Time Filmmaker

To Be A Good Home follows three women who farm and steward land in northern Minnesota. Kaitlyn is a descendant of the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, tending her plot at the place of the gardens, Gitigaaning. Starr is an urban farmer, feeding her community near the shores of Gichigami. Hannah is a regenerative farmer, building soil and caring for her herd along Medicine Creek.