Beerocracy

Beerocracy is a 2017 Canadian documentary directed by Alex Vietinghoff and Shauna Chase that offers an intimate and engaging dive into the rapidly evolving craft beer industry. Expanding far beyond the social trend of craft breweries and beer tastings, Beerocracy explores the cultural, economic, and legislative dimensions of the industry, focusing on the province of New Brunswick, where the film was shot.

The documentary illustrates the exponential growth of the microbrewing industry in Canada, particularly in New Brunswick, and presents the various challenges and successes encountered by the many passionate proprietors. It portrays not just the breweries, brewpubs, bottle shops, and bars, but the entire beer ecosystem which includes hops farmers, malters, beer judges, beer writers, homebrew clubs, beer festivals, and distilleries.

The film’s story is told through the acumen and passion of New Brunswick’s craft brewers, including the stories of people like Sean Dunbar of Picaroon's Traditional Ales, Jake Saunders of Hammond River Brewing, and Stephen Dixon of Grimross Brewing Co. These brewers invite viewers into their brewhouses, sharing their personal narratives and providing insights into the art and science of brewing beer. From preparing the mash to fermenting the wort, the brewers share the joy and dedication involved in crafting unique and exciting flavor profiles.

Beerocracy also delves into the behind-the-scenes maneuverings of the brewing industry, emphasizing the resilience and innovation required to get their artisanal beers into the hands (and glasses) of beer lovers. The brewers voice their concerns over regulatory barriers, restrictive legislation, and the competition posed by multinational breweries. The film asks critical questions about the real costs and benefits of local beer, leading to rich and thoughtful discussions around protectionism, monopolies, and global and local economies.

Using a mix of interviews, candid observations, and lively beer events, the filmmakers humanize the story and allow different viewpoints to be heard. The people featured in the film, from the tenacious brewers to the oath-sworn beer enthusiasts, are shown as truly passionate about their craft and committed to building an inclusive beer culture. The film creates a universal appeal beyond just beer enthusiasts as it tells the human story of grit, determination, and the pursuit of dreams.

Given its focus on one region, Beerocracy generates a substantial local feel, with scenic shots of the beautiful landscapes, the vibrant cities, the hoppin’ beer festivals, and the breweries, often housed in repurposed, historic buildings. These visual elements give the film a distinct sense of place that makes the story all the more engaging. The music featured in the film – sourced primarily from New Brunswick artists – further emphasizes this local flavor.

In addition to exploring the contemporary craft beer scene, Beerocracy offers a brief history of beer in New Brunswick. The history underscores the changing dynamics in the province, from the monopoly of large breweries to the burgeoning of craft beer and new regulations that helped spur this growth. This historical perspective provides an essential backdrop to understanding the craft beer phenomenon and the moves needed to support its continued growth.

By the end of the engaging 85-minute duration, viewers don't just get insights into beer and brewing. They relish in the camaraderie, community, and collaborative efforts that define the craft beer scene. This perspective offers a broader understanding of the craft beer movement as viewers are given a sneak peek into the incredible world of brewery entrepreneurship and of craft beer as a form of community building.

Beerocracy is a must-watch for craft beer lovers while it serves as a thoughtful and enjoyable introduction for those keen on understanding the growing trend of local, craft brewing companies. The film offers a refreshing and articulate examination of a significant cultural and economic landscape, positioning craft breweries as more than just trendy watering holes, but harbingers of an evolving conversation about the importance of local economies and sustainable community development. Vietinghoff's documentary frames the craft beer revolution as an exciting story of creativity, community, and a craft well-celebrated.