Love of the Land

Directed by Travis Van Alstyne

Warning – This review may contain spoilers.

Love of the Land tells the heart-wrenching true story of Romaine Tenney, a Vermont farmer whose life was torn apart when the state seized his land to build Interstate 91 in the 1960s. As I watched this short animated film, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of Tenney’s despair as he faced the loss of his farm, which had been his life’s work. The film takes us through Tenney’s emotional journey as he refuses to sell his land and, instead, witnesses it deteriorate as construction advances around him. In the end, his tragic decision to end his life highlights the devastating personal toll that eminent domain can have on individuals. I found the film to be a powerful reminder of how deeply people can be tied to their land and livelihoods.

The simplicity of the animation made the story even more poignant for me. It allowed the emotional depth of Tenney’s story to come through without overwhelming the viewer with unnecessary details. The elegance of the animation style matched the somber tone of the film, adding a haunting beauty to the way the story unfolded. As someone who appreciates heartfelt narratives, I was struck by how the film handled such a heavy subject with grace and respect, honoring Tenney’s deep connection to his farm.

Love of the Land impressed me from a technical standpoint. The animation was stunning, with each frame creating a vivid picture of the farm and its gradual destruction. The sound design was also top-notch, adding a layer of emotional depth to the visuals. The subtle sound effects, along with the carefully chosen music, amplified the sorrowful atmosphere. The editing was smooth and deliberate, allowing the story to unfold at a pace that felt just right. I appreciated that the film didn’t rush through any of the important moments, giving me time to absorb the gravity of what was happening.

What really stood out to me was the pacing. The film didn’t drag, but it also didn’t rush the emotional buildup. Each scene felt purposeful, gradually building to the inevitable conclusion. I found myself connecting deeply with Tenney’s internal struggle, watching as he helplessly witnessed the loss of everything he had worked for. By the time the film reached its conclusion, I was left with a profound sense of loss and sympathy for Tenney’s plight.

Love of the Land hit me hard. It’s a deeply emotional film that shines a light on the human cost of progress, and I think it’s a story that will resonate with many. The film’s beautiful animation, strong technical execution, and deeply emotional core left a lasting impression on me. It’s a powerful tribute to Romaine Tenney’s love for his land and a poignant reminder of the consequences of eminent domain, making it a film that I believe will move anyone who watches it.