Ben's Mill

Ben’s Mill is a 1982 documentary that chronicles the lifestyle and craftsmanship of Ben Thresher, the mill's dedicated proprietor who embodies the essence of authentic, rural American life. Set within the stunning landscape of postcard picturesque Vermont, directors John Karol and Michel Chalufour delve into the day-to-day operations of a water-powered woodworking mill that has existed since the early 19th Century.

The figure at the heart of this engaging masterpiece is Ben Thresher, a man in his late 80s who continues to work the mill that had been passed down to him over generations. Known throughout Barnet, Vermont, for both his warm-hearted nature and his unswerving dedication to maintaining the traditional ways of his craft, Thresher takes centre stage in his portrayal of a quintessential American craftsman.

Thresher’s knowledge serves as the primary resource for the comprehensive depiction of 19th-century mill functions. The directors capture Thresher’s easeful navigation around the mazes of the mill, effortlessly working machinery that echoes a bygone era. The film expertly showcases his dexterity and precision even when handling the very rudimentary and perhaps unconventional tools of the old milling trade.

“Ben’s Mill” succinctly portrays an era of American history wherein manual labor and skills were the foundation of society. Thresher’s passion and dedication mirror the spirit of the countless American craftsmen who have played significant roles in carving the country's rich history. The filmmaker's dedication towards presenting every detail of the aged yet sustenance providing mill and the life that revolves around it make this documentary a fascinating chronicle of a forgotten era.

The film is not just about the physical processes that keep the mill running. It is also an intimate and heartwarming portrayal of Thresher's relationship with his friends, neighbors, and the local community. The genuine, mutual respect between Thresher and his community forms a parallel narrative of emotional warmth. Indeed, throughout the film, Thresher showcases wisdom that extends beyond his trade and permeates his interactions with those around him.

The directors utilize a subdued and atmospheric cinematic language. They don't shy away from prolonged shots of the rural landscape, impromptu interviews with residents, or detailed sequences of the mill's functions. Yet its pace doesn't waver nor does it feel like observing outdated artifacts. Instead, it's an intriguing peek into a lifestyle that unknowingly harmonizes with nature and respects it unconditionally.

The visual style of the film is equally enchanting. The cinematography effectively captures the stunning beauty of Vermont. The changing seasons, the twinkling streams, the untouched forests all combine to form a picturesque backdrop to Thresher’s day-to-day life. The filmmakers also employ close-ups and natural light to capture the minor, intricate details of the mill machinery, complementing the pastoral tranquility of the setting.

Sound is equally important within the film, with the filmmakers choosing to foreground the natural sounds of the working mill and its rustic environment. There is an undercurrent of authenticity in the cacophony of the chirping birds, the flowing water, the creaking wood, and the clinking metals.

The film's narrative primarily focuses on the reminiscence of an American past by underscoring how it had moulded individuals like Ben Thresher. It examines the importance of heritage and tradition, collaboration and community, hard work and resilience.

“Ben’s Mill” is a true celebration of rural American culture, a testimony to the value of old-world trades, and an exploration of a self-sufficient lifestyle. It does not beg for nostalgia but respects its characters’ roots and association with the past. For those interested in understanding true craftsmanship, the importance of community, and the charm of rural life in one of its most authentic forms, this film offers an insightful and captivating viewing experience.