A dear friend recently shared with me her desire to continue expressing herself through black and white photography. This sentiment resonated with me as I watched “Seeds,” a film by Brittany Shyne that beautifully captures the lives of Black farmers in the United States. Premiering at Sundance in the U.S. Documentary competition, “Seeds” offers a poignant portrayal of agrarian life while shedding light on the challenges faced by Black farmers due to historical discrimination by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The film follows the stories of two Black farmers in the American South, highlighting their struggles and resilience in the face of adversity. Through intimate and evocative black and white visuals, Shyne skillfully explores the deep connection between the farmers and their land. The film delves into the bureaucratic hurdles faced by farmers like Willie Head Jr., who inherited his grandfather’s land in Georgia and grapples with the slow distribution of promised subsidies.
“Seeds” is not just a journalistic endeavor but a poetic reflection on life and heritage, reminiscent of other acclaimed documentaries like “Time” and “Hale County This Morning, This Evening.” Shyne’s deliberate use of close-up shots creates an immersive experience for the audience, capturing moments of both beauty and hardship in the farmers’ lives.
The film also addresses the broader issue of land ownership and preservation, emphasizing the crucial role that farming plays in sustaining communities. By showcasing the daily routines and struggles of the farmers, Shyne emphasizes the significance of preserving agricultural traditions and passing them down to future generations.
Through its black and white imagery, “Seeds” invites viewers to reflect on the land and the labor that sustains us all. Shyne’s meticulous attention to detail and contrast captures the essence of farming life, from the backbreaking work to the moments of joy and connection with the land. The film serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring and protecting our agricultural heritage, especially in the face of dwindling land ownership among Black farmers.
In “Seeds,” we witness the profound bond between the farmers and the land, as they strive to protect and nurture their heritage for generations to come. Through Shyne’s lens, we are reminded of the resilience and determination of the farmers, who continue to fight for their livelihoods and the future of farming in America.