The Truffle Hunters (NYFF 2020); Grade: B
Strictly Films welcomes you back to coverage of this years New York Film Festival! Our next film on the block: The Truffle Hunters.
The Truffle Hunters is a documentary film based around those whom searched in the woods in Northern Italy, for Truffles. Truffles are not what you think regarding the chocolate sensation, Truffles is a rare fungi found in close association with tree roots, if not picky Truffles are good on just about any dish. We go through the life of those whom hunt for Truffles, regarding their lifestyles, as well as getting acquainted with their spouses, and of course their beloved dogs.
The film making behind The Truffle Hunters is superb, a gorgeous looking film that truly captures the beauty of this beloved country. The scenery looks absolutely terrific, there are so many gorgeous shots that honestly look close to portraits, which is no surprised due to the fact Italy is the most beautiful country in the world. Followed by a lovely Score, that felt classical towards this culture of this land.
Substance wise... I believe this film does enough, in which not only draw interest, but also teaches you lessons about those whom partake in this field. I believe in the past regarding a past film I watched, is where I first discover what a Truffle was. Again with this film I did learned a great amount of information, of how rare and precious this Fungi is. Regarding the market value, what type of climate is best suited as far as quality, and just how one can work their entire life searching for Truffles. I mean we had an 88 year old man still going, all it really takes is a trusted companion aka a Dog and you’re just about good to go.
Over the course of time some people still have a passion for Truffle hunting, as some not so much. People of today don’t give the amount of respect to other fellow Truffle Hunters, so they invade on their desired properties as the passion and drive has gone south. But there is one like the 88 year old man, who’s wife truly wants him to give it up as he can fully retire with his pension, but the man refuses as that’s his one beloved passion as he wishes to continue searching in the dark, along with his dog hearing the call of an Owl... That sounds relaxing I do say.
It may not sound all that interesting, but I did have a relaxing time watching this, learning something I haven’t discovered before, plus watching these elderly people enjoying the simplicity of life was refreshing to say the least.
Overall, The Truffle Hunters is a solid documentary film. I do recommend checking this one out. -Mitch Smietana