Watch Charlotte: A Wooden Boat Story

Charlotte: A Wooden Boat Story is a documentary film that tells the story of two boat builders, Nat Benjamin and Ross Gannon, who have devoted their lives to preserving the art of traditional wooden boat building. Directed by Jeffrey Kusama-Hinte, the film beautifully captures the intricate process of building a wooden boat, and chronicles Benjamin and Gannon's efforts to restore a 50-foot gaff-rigged schooner named Charlotte.

The film takes us on a journey through the history of this unique vessel, which was built in 1884 and played a vital role in the lives of numerous individuals over the course of its existence. We learn about the various owners and uses of the ship, from its early days as a fishing vessel to its eventual conversion into a pleasure boat. The film also highlights the many challenges and obstacles that the boat faced over the years, including damage from storms and neglect.

Throughout the documentary, Benjamin and Gannon work tirelessly to restore Charlotte to her former glory. We see them carefully removing rotting planks, sanding and varnishing the wood, and crafting new pieces from scratch. The attention to detail and craftsmanship required for this process is truly remarkable, and the film does an excellent job of conveying the dedication and love that these two boat builders have for their craft.

In addition to documenting the restoration process, the film also touches on the broader significance of traditional wooden boat building in a modern world dominated by mass-produced goods. Benjamin and Gannon are passionate advocates for preserving this art form, and they explain how their work represents a connection to a time when things were made by hand and crafted with care. The film makes a compelling argument for the value of preserving such traditions, as a way of keeping our connection to our past and maintaining a sense of personal connection to the world around us.

One of the strengths of Charlotte: A Wooden Boat Story is its ability to evoke a sense of place and history. The film is largely set in Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, a small island community that has a rich cultural heritage and a strong connection to the sea. The filmmakers capture the stunning natural beauty of the island, as well as its unique architecture and culture, providing a rich backdrop for the story.

At its heart, however, the film is a tribute to the art and craft of wooden boat building. Through its careful attention to detail and its focus on the work of two skilled craftsmen, Charlotte: A Wooden Boat Story reveals the beauty and complexity of this ancient technique. By telling the story of the restoration of Charlotte, the film reminds us of the importance of preserving these traditions and the value of craftsmanship in a world that often values speed and efficiency over quality and care.

Overall, Charlotte: A Wooden Boat Story is a beautifully crafted documentary that will appeal to anyone with an interest in traditional craftsmanship, wooden boats, or the history of maritime culture. Through its engaging narrative and stunning visuals, it offers a unique perspective on a craft that has been an integral part of human history for centuries. For those who appreciate the value of handcrafted objects and the importance of preserving our cultural heritage, Charlotte: A Wooden Boat Story is an inspiring and thought-provoking film.

Charlotte: A Wooden Boat Story is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received outstanding reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 9.8.