Watch Take Joy! The Magical World of Tasha Tudor

Take Joy! The Magical World of Tasha Tudor is a 1996 documentary film that explores the life and work of Tasha Tudor, an acclaimed author and illustrator of children's books. The film presents an intimate look at Tudor's daily life, both at her home in Vermont and during her travels, and features interviews with family, friends, and colleagues.

The documentary begins with a brief introduction of Tasha Tudor and her work, which encompasses more than 100 books and thousands of illustrations. Viewers are then taken on a tour of Tudor's home, where she lives a simple life in a house modeled after an 18th-century New England farmhouse. Tudor's love for the past is evident in every corner of her home, from the furniture and decor to the clothes she wears and the toys she plays with.

Throughout the film, Tudor shares her love for nature, which is a major source of inspiration for her work. She spends time tending to her garden, raising chickens, and even taking her horse out for a ride. We see Tudor painting in her studio, where she works on illustrations for her upcoming books. Her artistic process is captured in detail, showing how she uses natural light and traditional techniques to create her whimsical illustrations.

The documentary also highlights Tudor's love for the holiday season, which she celebrates with great joy and enthusiasm. We see her preparing for Christmas, making gingerbread cookies, decorating her tree, and even dressing up as Santa for her grandchildren. These scenes are especially heartwarming, as they demonstrate Tudor's love for family and tradition.

Throughout the film, we hear from Tudor's family and friends, who offer insights into her life and work. They describe her as a kind and generous person who is always willing to share her knowledge and creative process with others. We also hear from children who have been inspired by Tudor's books, demonstrating the enduring impact of her work on generations of readers.

One aspect of Tudor's life that the film touches on is her dedication to preserving the past. Tudor is shown attending antique fairs and using old-fashioned tools in her daily life, such as a treadle sewing machine and an antique butter churn. This love for the past is reflected in her work, which often features historical themes and settings.

Overall, Take Joy! The Magical World of Tasha Tudor is a charming and intimate look at the life and work of a beloved children's author and illustrator. The film captures the magic and whimsy of Tudor's work, while also showcasing her dedication to family, nature, and tradition. It is a must-see for fans of Tudor's books, as well as anyone who appreciates the beauty of a simple, authentic life.

Take Joy! The Magical World of Tasha Tudor is a 2008 kids & family movie with a runtime of 47 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.3.